1.1 Powers and functions of the Sovereign

Under the Westminster system of government as practiced in Australia, the Queen as Sovereign of Australia is Head of State. The Australia Act 1986 (Commonwealth) provides that the Queen's representative in each State is the Governor.

All powers and functions of the Sovereign in respect of the State are exercisable only by the Governor, except for the power to appoint, and the power to terminate the appointment of, the Governor. The Sovereign is not precluded from exercising any of the Sovereign's powers and functions in respect of the State while personally present in the State.

Advice to the Sovereign in relation to the exercise of the powers and functions in respect of the State is tendered by the Premier.

Last reviewed: 17 July, 2009

Last updated: 22 July, 2009

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