Australia to get first female Governor-General

news.com.au ^ | 13th April 2008

[naturalman1975]

AUSTRALIA is to have its first female governor-general, with the announcement that Queensland's governor, Quentin Bryce, has been appointed to the job.

The announcement came as current Governor-General Major General Michael Jeffery handed in his resignation.

Major General Jeffery's current term is due to expire next month.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said Ms Bryce would become Australia's 25th governor-general.

Ms Bryce, who was appointed the 24th Governor of Queensland in July 2003, had been an inspiring governor, serving with great distinction, Mr Rudd said.

"Ms Bryce has an outstanding record of service to the entire Australian community," he said in a statement.

"She is highly qualified for the role of governor-general. Ms Bryce has enjoyed a rich and dynamic career as a lawyer, academic and senior public office holder."

Her former roles include federal sex discrimination commissioner, inaugural director of the Queensland Women's Information Service and founding chair and chief executive of the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Ms Bryce has been appointed to a five-year term.

Ms Bryce and her husband, Adjunct Professor Michael Bryce AM AE, were married in 1964. They have two daughters, three sons and five grandchildren.

"On behalf of the Government and the people of Australia, I extend very sincere congratulations to Ms Bryce," Mr Rudd said.

Mr Rudd said Major General Jeffery, who served as governor-general for five years, had completed a very distinguished term of service in this high office.

[naturalman1975]

His Excellency Major General Philip Michael Jeffery AC, CVO, MC, KStJ

Her Excellency Quentin Alice Louise Bryce AC

[OeOeO]

"federal sex discrimination commissioner?"

How much does that pay?

and pay?

and pay

and pay?