In her first speech as Australia’s new governor-general, Sam Mostyn quoted Quentin Bryce, Australia’s first female governor-general, emphasizing the need to balance tradition with modernity. Mostyn expressed her commitment to being an optimistic, modern, and visible leader, prioritizing service to all Australians.
![Governor-General Sam Mostyn and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Photo: EPA-EFE f6b6944c 10b6 480a 8eea 36acd4c9ed94 3fe9ecb0](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/01/f6b6944c-10b6-480a-8eea-36acd4c9ed94_3fe9ecb0.jpg)
Mostyn, known for her past activism, has faced criticism for her support of an Australian republic and labeling Australia Day as “Invasion Day.”
![Governor-General Sam Mostyn inspects troops. Photo: EPA-EFE 49d5deeb 9113 45f3 b552 f4367f688c72 741ac6ff](https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/d8/images/canvas/2024/07/01/49d5deeb-9113-45f3-b552-f4367f688c72_741ac6ff.jpg)
Despite past controversies, Mostyn aims to be a unifying figure, working towards a more inclusive and modern Australia as she takes over from General David Hurley.