Governor-General of Australia

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Incumbent
David Hurley

since 1 July 2019

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The Governor-General of Australia is the representative of the Monarch of Australia, currently King Charles III, in the Commonwealth of Australia. The Governor-General is appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister of Australia. The role is largely ceremonial, but the Governor-General has significant constitutional and community responsibilities.

Constitutional Role

The Governor-General's powers and functions are defined by the Constitution of Australia, particularly in sections 2 and 61 to 64. The Governor-General exercises executive power on behalf of the monarch, which includes:

• Giving Royal Assent to legislation passed by the Parliament of Australia.
• Appointing ministers, judges, and ambassadors.
• Summoning and dissolving Parliament.
• Issuing writs for elections.

The Governor-General acts on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, which is composed of all current ministers of the Crown.

Ceremonial Role

In addition to constitutional duties, the Governor-General performs various ceremonial functions, such as:

• Attending and hosting state functions and ceremonies.
• Representing Australia at home and abroad.
• Presenting honors and awards, such as those in the Order of Australia.

Community Role

The Governor-General engages with the Australian community by:

• Supporting and promoting charitable, cultural, and community organizations.
• Visiting different regions and communities across Australia.
• Acting as a patron to various organizations.

Appointment and Tenure

The Governor-General is appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister. The term is not fixed, but it is typically around five years. The Governor-General serves "at the monarch's pleasure," meaning they can be dismissed by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister.

History

The position of Governor-General was established at the time of Federation of Australia in 1901. The first Governor-General was John Hope, 7th Earl of Hopetoun. Initially, the role was filled by British aristocrats, but since 1965, all Governors-General have been Australian citizens.

Also see

• Monarchy of Australia
• Prime Minister of Australia
• Parliament of Australia
• Constitution of Australia
• Order of Australia