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Who is Australia’s Head of State? · 1 min read

Who is Australia’s Head of State?

Australia’s Head of State is the King of Australia, His Majesty King Charles III.

The King of Australia appoints the Governor-General as his representative in Australia, on advice from the Australian Prime Minister. The Governor-General acts independently of all political parties. The King does not have a day-to-day role in government.

In each of the states there is a governor who represents the King in a role that is similar to the Governor-General.

Test yourself on this topic

4 questions on this topic, each with the answer explained.

  1. 1. In each Australian state, who represents the King in a role similar to that of the Governor-General?

    • A premier
    • A chief minister
    • A mayor
    • A governor

    Explanation: Every state has a governor who stands for the King at state level, much as the Governor-General does for the whole country.

  2. 2. What part does the King take in the day-to-day running of government in Australia?

    • He approves each decision made by the ministers
    • He takes no day-to-day role in government
    • He chairs the daily meetings of the ministers
    • He runs the government from outside Australia

    Explanation: The King is Head of State, but the daily work of governing is not done by him.

  3. 3. Who appoints the Governor-General, and on whose advice?

    • The Prime Minister, on advice from the King of Australia
    • The state governors, on advice from the Australian Parliament
    • The Australian Parliament, on advice from the state governors
    • The King of Australia, on advice from the Prime Minister

    Explanation: The appointment is made by the King, but only after the Australian Prime Minister has given advice on who should be appointed.

  4. 4. Who is Australia's Head of State?

    • The Governor-General of Australia
    • The Premier of each state
    • The King of Australia
    • The Prime Minister of Australia

    Explanation: The King of Australia holds the position of Head of State. The Prime Minister and the Governor-General hold different positions.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet