What are the features of a constitutional monarchy?

In a constitutional monarchy a king or queen is the head of state but has limited power. They must follow the country's constitution and other accepted practices known as conventions.

Australia's head of state is His Majesty King Charles III. The Australian Constitution provides for a Governor-General to be appointed to act on behalf of the King in Australia.

Examples of other constitutional monarchies include Belgium, Tonga and Sweden.

A composite image of an older man wearing a suit and tie, and an older woman wearing glasses and a suit.

The King and Governor-General

Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au)

The King and Governor-General

A composite image of an older man wearing a suit and tie, and an older woman wearing glasses and a suit.

Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au)

Description

His Majesty King Charles III, Australia's head of state.

Shown beside him is the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, the King’s representative in Australia.