Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced Samantha Mostyn as the nation’s next Governor-General.
Ms Mostyn, a prominent businesswoman and gender equality advocate, will take over from David Hurley and become Australia’s 28th Governor-General after she is sworn in on 1 July 2024.
Mr Albanese said Ms Mostyn will be the second woman in history to hold the position after confirming her appointment had been approved by King Charles III.
“Sam Mostyn is an exceptional leader who represents the best of modern Australia,” Mr Albanese said.
“She has lived her life in the service of a powerful Australian principle. When more people have the opportunity to fulfil their potential, our nation is a better place.
“This understanding has driven Sam’s tireless advocacy for gender equality, particularly in the world of business, for women’s safety and reconciliation.”
Ms Mostyn has been the president of Chief Executive Women since 2021. Picture: Gaye Gerard / NCA Newswire
Ms Mostyn is currently the chair of the federal government’s Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce and was the first woman in Australia to be appointed as AFL commissioner, where she championed the creation of 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.
Ms Mostyn was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2021 for her “distinguished service to business, community and women.”
“I’m deeply honoured by this great privilege and look forward to representing the values, hopes and aspirations of all Australians,” she said on Wednesday.
“I will never underestimate or take for granted the expectations that come with high office, and I am ready to serve with integrity, compassion and respect.”
Mr Albanese thanked the outgoing Governor General David Hurley for his service. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Tertius Pickard
The prime minister thanked General David Hurley for his “outstanding” service as Australia’s Governor-General, a position he has held since 2019.
“David Hurley has done his duty with dignity, humility and great respect for the country that he has served and the country that he loves so deeply,” Mr Albanese said.
“I wish him and Mrs. Hurley all the very best for the next chapter of their lives together.
“And on a personal note, I thank him for his engagement with me as Prime Minister that we have had a respectful dialogue between the Governor-General and Prime Minister, which is so important for the nature of our democracy.”
Ms Mostyn will be officially sworn in during a ceremony in Parliament House on July 1.
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