- Kim Beazley announced as Western Australia's 33rd Governor
- Outgoing Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC acknowledged for her contribution
Western Australia's homegrown former Deputy Prime Minister Kim Beazley has been appointed as the next Governor of Western Australia.
The announcement follows Her Majesty The Queen's approval of the Premier's recommendation of the appointment of Kim Beazley.
Premier Mark McGowan made the announcement today and acknowledged outgoing WA Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC for her contribution to the role.
Mr Beazley will assume the role as WA's 33rd Governor when he is sworn in on May 1, 2018 at Government House.
Mr Beazley dedicated almost three decades to a career in Federal Parliament, representing the WA seats of Brand and Swan. Throughout this period he served as a Special Minister of the State, Federal Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Federal Leader of the Australian Labor Party and Federal Leader of the Opposition.
After retiring from politics in 2007, he was appointed Winthrop Professor at The University of Western Australia and has since held prestigious academic and diplomat roles including as Chancellor of the Australian National University.
In 2010, he was appointed Australian Ambassador to the United States of America and held the role until 2016.
Mr Beazley was also awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia for his services to the Australian Parliament, to the community and as an advocate for indigenous people.
Born in Perth, Mr Beazley has a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from The University of Western Australia. He has also completed a Masters of Philosophy at Oxford University and was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Notre Dame WA and Murdoch University.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"Kim Beazley is a natural leader - a true asset to Western Australia and someone who will advocate in the best interests of our State.
"Mr Beazley is a highly decorated Australian who is respected for his public service, and his important roles in international relations and to the community.
"His significant experience in defence and foreign affairs will be a valuable addition, as will his unparalleled international network that will assist in promoting Western Australia to the rest of the world.
"On behalf of the State, I would like to acknowledge Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC for her dedication and thank her for her involvement and terrific contribution in the role over the past three and a half years. I wish her every success for her future endeavours."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
