General News
26 August, 2024
What is a Governor?
Following the Governor's visit recently, journalist Samantha Smith gives us an insight into who the Governor is.
Governors of Victoria typically serve terms of five years, although this period can be changed subject to agreement between the Governor, the Premier, and the King.
The primary obligation of the Governor is to oversee the workings of the government, ensuring that it acts within the boundaries of the Victorian Constitution and the rule of law.
The role of Governor is to be a symbol of unity, to represent and understand the entire state’s community, and to encourage unity, mutual respect and confidence.
The Governor must remain apolitical and impartial and therefore does not vote in elections, and does not show support for any political party’s views or policies.
.The main responsibilities of the Governor include calling for elections, chairing the Executive Council, giving Royal Assent to Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament, dissolving the Legislative Assembly in exceptional circumstances, and appointing or dismissing Ministers.
The Governor encourages and celebrates people in voluntary service, innovation, education, artistic endeavours and sporting achievement.
They are patrons of many not-for-profit organisations, and engage with the community by holding receptions, interacting with community groups and leaders, visiting schools to speak with staff and students, attending the opening of facilities and speaking at community events such as Anzac Day or Australia Day, and promote activities that support growth in cultures.
On the wider stage, the Governor promotes Victoria’s international economic, social and cultural interests by working closely with ambassadors and high commissioners, and with the Consular Corps in Melbourne.
The Governor receives visiting heads of state, heads of government, and other senior international representatives, and hosts receptions for delegates to major international conferences in Victoria.
At the request of the Premier, the Governor may be required to represent Victoria as a Head of State overseas, building friendship and good relations with other nations, and promoting Victoria’s economic, social and cultural interests.