# Samantha Mostyn to Be Australia’s Next Governor-General, Succeeding David Hurley
In a historic announcement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has named Samantha Mostyn as Australia’s next Governor-General, marking her as only the second woman to ever hold this esteemed position. Set to succeed David Hurley on July 1, Mostyn’s appointment is a testament to her expansive career and advocacy work, particularly in the realms of business and gender equality. As the nation awaits her inauguration as the 28th Governor-General, let’s delve into the journey that has led Mostyn to this prestigious role.
## A Trailblazer in Business and Advocacy
At the heart of Mostyn’s commendable career is a blend of leadership in corporate Australia and dedication to numerous social causes. Trained as a lawyer, her professional path has seen her occupy senior positions in telecommunications and insurance, not just locally but on a global stage. Her leadership has been instrumental on the boards of major companies including Transurban, Virgin Australia, and as the chair of Citibank Australia. Presently, she chairs AWARE Super and Alberts Music Group and serves on the Mirvac board.
Mostyn’s influence has extended beyond the boardroom. As president of Chief Executive Women from 2021-22, she has been a staunch advocate for gender equality. Her tenure as a commissioner of the Australian Football League (AFL) was marked by significant contributions, not least being the development of its Respect and Responsibility policy and promoting the AFL Women’s (AFLW) league.
## Commitment to Community and Sustainability
Beyond her corporate achievements, Mostyn has chaired and been involved with various not-for-profit bodies including Beyond Blue and Australian Volunteers International, showcasing her commitment to mental health and global volunteerism. Her advocacy for climate change and women’s issues has been a constant throughout her career, further demonstrated by her chairmanship of the federal government’s Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce in 2022.
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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese referred to Mostyn as an “exceptional leader” upon announcing her appointment. Quoting Mostyn, he highlighted her dedication to service with “integrity, compassion, and respect.”
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I am honoured to announce that His Majesty The King has approved my recommendation to appoint Ms Samantha Mostyn AO as Australia's next Governor-General.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 2, 2024
## A Life Shaped by Service and Values
Born in Canberra into an army family, Mostyn credits her foundational values to her upbringing. An army family life across the United States, Canada, Adelaide, and Melbourne instilled in her resilience and a deep sense of service. Completing an arts law degree at the Australian National University while working as a researcher for the Chief Magistrate of the Australian Capital Territory, Mostyn’s career has been a reflection of the values taught by her parents: generosity, care for others, respect, curiosity, being service-oriented, and humility.
## Ready to Serve
As Mostyn prepares to take on the Governor-General role, she brings with her a wealth of experience from the highest echelons of Australian companies and a lifelong commitment to various facets of Australian life. Her legal training and deep respect for Australia’s institutions and the rule of law will guide her in her constitutional and ceremonial duties.
Australia looks forward to embracing Samantha Mostyn as its next Governor-General, ushering in an era led by a modern and optimistic leader whose career and life have been dedicated to service, equality, and the betterment of society.