What is the process of appointing a new Governor-General if the current Governor-General fails to uphold his duties?

Interesting question, thank you Chloe-Jane. The Governor-General is appointed by the King on the advice of the Prime Minister. The Governor-General’s appointment is at ‘the King’s pleasure’, that is, without a fixed term. In practice, most appointments are for around 5 years. Sometimes this term is extended.

A Governor-General can be dismissed by the King before their term is complete. By convention – tradition – this may only be on the advice of the Prime Minister. No Governor-General has ever been dismissed.

If a Governor-General was dismissed, a vacancy would then occur, just as it does when a Governor-General resigns (this has happened 3 times). Section 4 of the Australian Constitution allows the King to appoint an administrator to carry out the role of Governor-General when there is a vacancy. The longest-serving state governor would take on the role of Governor-General until the position is permanently filled.

The Governor-General, wearing a suit and medals on the left side of his chest, talks to people in a crowd.

The Governor-General engaging in ceremonial duties.

Office of the Governor-General

The Governor-General engaging in ceremonial duties.

The Governor-General, wearing a suit and medals on the left side of his chest, talks to people in a crowd.

Office of the Governor-General

Description

The Governor-General, wearing a suit and medals on the left side of his chest, talks to people in a crowd.