Speech for the Spring Investitures

It is a great pleasure and privilege to be with you here at Government House. 

This is a place of warmth and welcome that belongs to all Australians.

And, on Investiture days, Government House echoes with history, excellence, contribution and optimism.

A current of stories over decades, lived and told by the people who shaped our modern nation in the image of their own energy. 

Today we join your stories to theirs … and anchor them to our hopes and ambitions for the future.

I was recently in this room with my family and friends to celebrate my own investiture.

So, I can understand a little of what you are all feeling today. 

Excitement …

… some nerves …

… pride in your remarkable achievements, and

… gratitude to the families and communities who have always been there with you …

… and, I know you will all have a renewed sense of purpose to carry on with your work and encourage others to make their contributions.

Every year we have about 25,000 school students visit Government House.

The team here provide the history of Government House and the role of the Governor-General.

I try hard to see as many of the school groups as I can – and their interest is always drawn to the Honours system.

We explain the significance of the Awards, and they are so impressed with the stories of honour we share.

So, I want you to know that, as your Governor-General – with the immense privilege of investing you with your honours – I am also humbled and proud.

Before I took office, I met with all living former governors-general.

Every one of them told me that Investiture days were some of the most memorable in their terms.

In fact, former governor-general David Hurley liked to say that,

‘investitures are one of the greatest joys of this role … you cannot help but be uplifted’.

And, having read of all your accomplishments, I am uplifted and filled with admiration for you all.

– – – –

Today has been long in the planning.

For those who are here to receive an honour, it has been a lifetime in the making. 

And for our nation, it is a day foreshadowed by 65,000 years of Indigenous culture, shared so generously by the oldest continuing culture in the world …

… our British institutions of law and democracy …

… and the vibrant, successful, multicultural society we celebrate as modern Australia.

It really is a day to remember.

It is said that an honours and awards system is only as good as the people it recognises.

And I can say with confidence that our Australian system is the best in the world …

… because of you.

Your dedication to serving your communities and our nation is essential to the optimism, confidence and pride of all Australians as we build our remarkable nation’s future together.

From the most extraordinary array of disciplines, contributions and excellence you all exemplify the depth of Australian values.

At this time of year, investiture ceremonies are taking place across the country.

In every capital city, in each Government House, remarkable Australians like you are gathering to be recognised for outstanding service or exceptional achievement.

Now, while every recipient’s accomplishment is as unique as each of your own stories and character, you are united by the qualities of kindness, care, respect and generosity that sit at the heart of everything you do.

Care for people and communities.

Care for excellence, discovery, creativity and ingenuity.

Care for our institutions and our stunningly beautiful continent and natural environment.

Care for the diversity we celebrate in all its forms …

… and the possibilities that rest with a deep commitment to inclusion and belonging.

I know the joy and optimism that I feel in your company today is shared across the country – and particularly in the communities and organisations you represent.

I hope all of you – those who are here to be invested and the family and friends here to witness this ceremony – are also uplifted and inspired, and so very proud.

Congratulations to you all, and I look forward to spending some time with each of you over the course of the morning/afternoon.