Samantha Mostyn, a lawyer and businesswoman, was announced as the new governor-general by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday.
At 58 years old, Ms.
Mostyn is set to assume her new position in July 2024.
She expressed her commitment by stating, "I will never underestimate or take for granted the expectations that come with high office and I am ready to serve with integrity, compassion and respect.
" Albanese praised Mostyn as "an outstanding leader who embodies the finest qualities of modern Australia.
" He further remarked, "She has dedicated her life to upholding a core Australian value: that when more individuals have the opportunity to realize their potential, our nation thrives.
" The appointment has garnered attention from some conservatives due to Mostyn's previous statements advocating for a republic.
In 2020, she voiced support for former Prime Minister Paul Keating's republic aspirations and referred to Australia Day as "invasion day" in a social media post that has since been deleted.
A conservative lobbying group, Advance Australia, criticized Mostyn's appointment, claiming she was being paid a substantial salary to represent an institution she did not support.
However, conservative opposition leader Peter Dutton welcomed the decision.
Mostyn is recognized in Australia for her advocacy on climate change and gender equality issues, as well as for being the first woman on the governing body of the Australian football league.
She will follow in the footsteps of Dame Quentin Bryce as the second female governor-general of the country.
While the Albanese government has expressed interest in holding a referendum on transitioning Australia to a republic, a government minister stated in early 2024 that focusing on removing King Charles III as the head of state was not currently a priority.