Does the Governor General, in their role as the King's representative, ever actually communicate with the King?

Hi Girraween Primary School,

Thank you for this great question.

In principle yes, the Governor-General as the King’s representative in Australia can communicate directly with the King. However, in practice both the office of the Governor-General and the office of the King have staff who keep each other up to date with any news.

Although the Governor-General acts on behalf of the monarch they do not need to consult with the King on day-to-day matters such as giving Royal Assent (signing a bill into law).

A woman signs a document at desk in front of Australian flags.

The Governor-General signing a bill.

Mel Adams/DPS AUSPIC

The Governor-General signing a bill.

A woman signs a document at desk in front of Australian flags.

Mel Adams/DPS AUSPIC

Description

The Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, signing a bill, giving it Royal Assent. After a bill is signed by the Governor-General it becomes an Act of Parliament – a law.

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.