The Order of Australia is an honour that recognises Australian citizens and other persons for outstanding achievement and service. It was established on 14 February 1975 by Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia, on the advice of the Australian Government. Before the establishment of the order, Australian citizens received British honours.
King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) wearing the insignia of a Knight of the Order of Australia, 1983
Queen Elizabeth II wearing the insignia of the Sovereign of the Order of Australia
Governor-General of Australia
The governor-general of Australia is the representative of the monarch of Australia, currently King Charles III, and performs many constitutional, ceremonial and community roles in the Australian political system. When performing these roles, the governor-general acts independently and is not the King's delegate or agent. The current governor-general is David Hurley, having been appointed on 1 July 2019. Samantha Mostyn has been chosen by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to be the next governor-general, beginning 1 July 2024.
Governor-General of Australia
David Hurley (centre) at his swearing-in as governor-general in 2019
Governor-General Peter Cosgrove with ministers and parliamentary secretaries of the Second Turnbull Ministry, 2016
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull meeting with Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove on 8 May 2016 to request a double dissolution