How is the Governor-General Selected?
Since 1930 the Prime Minister has, in effect, selected the Governor-General. Although there are no barriers to the Prime Minister seeking advice he/she is under no obligation to consult Cabinet, the Opposition or the Parliament on the appointment. The resignation of Governor-General Dr Peter Hollingworth in May 2003 resulted in calls for a broader consultation process before the appointment. Suggestions included using a short list compiled by a selection panel,(2) taking nominations from across the Australian community,(3) adopting the model used to appoint the Queensland Governor(4) and using a combination of parliamentary and community consultation.(5) Constitutional monarchists have warned against a public selection process claiming it would politicise the post(6) and give the office a political mandate. The current debate mirrors earlier ones on the selection of the Governor-General. The 1999 Referendum on the Republic was lost partly because voters would not support the appointmen
