Australia to welcome new head of state

One-time republican supporter Sam Mostyn will become the King’s woman in Australia when she is sworn in as governor-general in a formal ceremony, including a guard of honour, at Parliament House on Monday.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appointed the successful businesswoman, advocate and former AFL commissioner for a five-year term, replacing former chief of defence David Hurley.

Australia to welcome new head of state

Ms Mostyn will become the second woman after Dame Quentin Bryce to hold the nation’s highest office.

Her lengthy resume showcased her achievements, including being the first woman in Australia to be appointed as AFL commissioner, where she championed the creation of the women’s competition.

She has also previously served in roles at Reconciliation Australia, Beyond Blue, the Australia Council for the Art and the National Mental Health Commission.

Her most recent role saw her chair the federal government’s Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce.

In 2021, Ms Mostyn was appointed an officer of the Order of Australia for her “distinguished service to business, community and women.” In the King’s Birthday honours this year, she was appointed to the highest honour – a Companion of the Order of Australia for “eminent service in the social justice, gender equity, sporting, cultural and business sectors, to reconciliation, and to environmental sustainability”.

But her appointment hasn’t come without its controversy.

Last week the government passed legislation to provide the Governor-General with a $709,000 annual salary – $200,000 more than her predecessor.

The pay rise sparked outrage among the Coalition and the Greens for being out of touch during a cost of living crisis but ultimately passed through parliament without too much difficulty.

However, the reason for the $200,000 boost follows the constitutional requirement that the governor-general’s pay cannot be changed in the five-year term and is set in relation to the chief justice of the High Court’s remuneration.

General Hurley had previously taken a lower pay check because he was receiving a significant military pension.

Ahead of the ceremonial change over on Monday, Mr Albanese praised General Hurley and his wife Linda for their years of service, saying the government would donate $10,000 to Dementia Australia in their honour.

“I’d like to thank the Governor-General and Mrs Hurley for the contribution they have made to Australia since 2019 and, indeed, across a lifetime of service,” Mr Albanese said.

“We know the Governor-General is a strong supporter of Dementia Australia, serving as patron along with 237 other organisations.

“We wish Their Excellencies the very best for the next chapter of their lives together.”

His five year term included some important historical moments, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the proclamation of the accession of King Charles.