Government House, NSW
Courtesy of NSW Parliament

Since the commencement of the Australia Act in 1986 virtually all powers and functions of Her Majesty in respect of New South Wales are exercisable only by the Governor. If, however, the Queen is personally present in New South Wales, then she may exercise them herself. An exception to the powers of the Governor in the name and on behalf of Her Majesty.

The Governor’s primary responsibility is to ensure, so far as possible, that the State’s democratic political procedures are observed. The Constitution Act establishes and regulates the Governors’ various constitutional functions, including the power to appoint the members of the Executive Council and to preside at its meetings, which are held weekly, and on such additional occasions as may be necessary; to summon, prorogue and dissolve the legislature; to appoint all ministers of State and to appoint and, where necessary, remove officials.

The Governor must act, in general, only on the advice of the Executive Council. But the Constitution Act recognizes the existence of an established constitutional convention (usually called ‘the reserve power’) which enables a Governor to act otherwise than on the advice of the Executive Council if, for example, the fundamental democratic system of the State were threatened by the Government.

As apolitical leaders, the Governor and the Governor’s spouse represent the whole community, and endeavour to encourage attitudes of cohesion, mutual respect and confidence. They achieve this important aim by traveling widely through New South Wales, by visiting and addressing as many organisations as possible, especially charities, by granting patronage, presenting awards and honours and conducting a variety of functions at Government House.

The intention is to convey recognition and gratitude to those whose efforts on behalf of the community merit acknowledgement; and is to foster support for voluntary service, the care of those who need help, the arts, industry and education, and many other activities which serve the community.

The Governor also presides on ceremonial occasions such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day when the community commemorates great events in its history.

Since March 1996, the Governor’s staff have occupied the historic offices of the Sir Henry Parkes Suite in the Chief Secretary’s Building, Macquarie Street, Sydney.