The Governor of South Australia has specific constitutional and statutory powers to oversee the workings of the South Australia Government and ensure that it acts within the boundaries of the State’s Constitution and the rule of law.

It is the Governor’s duty to sign all Bills that have been passed by the Parliament of South Australia in order to make them part of the law of South Australia.

The Governor regularly presides over a meeting of the Executive Council, comprising the Premier of South Australia and Ministers.

The Governor has a duty to ensure that the processes of Executive Council are conducted lawfully and regularly and may ask questions and seek further information from cabinet ministers.

The Governor has other statutory powers, including the power to:

• Dissolve the Parliament of South Australia and issue writs for a general election;
• Issue writs for the election of South Australian representatives in the Australian Senate;
• Appoint the Premier of South Australia and Ministry from the party with majority political support in the House of Assembly to form Government;
• Determine dates of Parliamentary sessions;
• Issue regulations and proclamations;
• Appoint judges, Royal Commissioners, and individuals to statutory boards and to tribunals.

All items for the approval of the Governor in Executive Council must first be considered by Cabinet, with the exception of the assent to Acts.

The Governor in Executive Council also has a number of other key roles, such as approving the Governor’s Speech for the Opening of Parliament.

The Governor officiates and represents the South Australian community at a range of significant ceremonial occasions, celebrations and commemorations, including the formal Opening of Parliament, representation at military parades and other special occasions of State and national significance such as Australia Day and Anzac Day commemorations.

The Governor conducts a series of Investiture Ceremonies at Government House, Adelaide to confer South Australian awards and honours.

The Governor also receives and hosts Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Heads of State and other notable visitors to South Australia.

The Governor has an important role in engaging with and representing the South Australian community, recognising achievement and service, and supporting organisations and initiatives that contribute to the State.

Through visits, events, receptions and other engagements, the Governor meets people across South Australia and acknowledges the contributions of individuals, organisations and communities.

The Governor’s community role includes:

• Visiting communities and organisations across South Australia;
• Hosting receptions and events at Government House to recognise achievement, service and contribution;
• Attending and presenting awards and honours;
• Providing patronage to community organisations and not-for-profit organisations;
• Hosting and attending events with community, professional, cultural and other organisations and groups.

Government House also provides opportunities for the community to engage with the Office of the Governor. These include:

• Tours of Government House for school and community groups;
• Community events and open days;
• Supporting events and activities that recognise achievement and contribution in South Australia.