BLUF

The role is mostly symbolic—actions involving military powers under Australia's Constitution require ministerial guidance, emphasising the importance of civilian oversight in national defence decisions.

Summary

  1. Section 68 of the Commonwealth Constitution vests the Governor-General with command-in-chief powers.
  2. The Chief of Defence Force has day-to-day command under the Defence Act 1903.
  3. In peaceful times, the role focuses on ceremonial duties and military commemorations.
  4. The new Governor-General comes from a military family.

 

READ: Explainer: the governor-general is also commander-in-chief of the defence forces. What does this mean in practice?

References