Sam Mostyn, the Governor-General of Australia, is only the second woman to hold this prestigious position in the country’s history. She launched into her five-year term already mired in controversy. Since her appointment, she’s focused on transforming the role into one that leads the charge on creating a caring society. Like her time in the portfolio, her commitment to connecting with Australians—and their ideas—through social media is an illustration of her respect and openness to public engagement.
Yet Mostyn’s appointment as RBA governor was not without its challenges, highlighting just how difficult the role of leadership can be in today’s Australia. Still, she’s consistently attacked her job with grit and purpose and a promising vision. Mostyn makes the case that care is central to Australian identity. Since taking office, she’s made it a focus of her agenda.
A Legacy of Service
Mostyn’s background as the oldest of four daughters in a military family instilled in her a lifetime of service to others. Her father, a veteran of the Australian Army, served for 40 years, instilling values that she carries into her role today.
“My dad’s now in his 90s, but he served in the Australian Army for 40 years, and my sisters and I and my mum were all part of a defence family,” – Sam Mostyn
This early background has strongly influenced her view of leadership and accountability. As Mostyn considers the weight of her responsibilities, she focuses on the need for authentic engagement with the Australian public.
“I had to reflect deeply with my husband and my daughter about whether I was capable of stepping into this role because of both the expectations, but also whether I have the legitimate right to be here and to represent Australians in this role,” – Sam Mostyn
Mostyn has a bachelor of arts law from the Australian National University. Through his rich, diverse career that has spanned all sectors – public, private, and nonprofit – Dr. Noonan has chaired numerous boards and been an AFL commissioner. Her formative experiences have undoubtedly shaped her views on leadership and made her more human, sensitive and dignified – attributes that she brings to the office of the Governor-General.
Promoting a Culture of Care
Since coming into office, Mostyn has been working to make the idea of care a core tenet of Australian identity. Her visit to Wyanga Aboriginal Aged Care in Sydney’s Redfern is an early indication of her determination to learn from and advocate for diverse communities.
“Care has a deep and resonant place in our Australian identity,” – Sam Mostyn
In her definition, care is more than just being nice. It is much larger than individual generosity. Mostyn elaborates on this notion, stating,
“Care is the gentle thought and the outstretched hand that Australians have always been ready to share when great challenges present themselves. Care is the quieter, better part of ourselves.” – Sam Mostyn
She shows us that care means meeting people where they are and listening to their needs. Along the way, she fosters deep, lasting relationships in neighborhoods. Mostyn discusses how empathy should be the foundation of public discourse and cautions against inflammatory, divisive language.
“If we send a message out to the general public that it is OK to be violent, to be angry, to make it personal, I worry that we will lose something that is uniquely Australian,” – Sam Mostyn
Engagement and Representation
Mostyn’s official duties as Governor-General involve personally representing Australia at major state functions abroad. She had the immense privilege of swearing in Anthony Albanese as the 31st Prime Minister of Australia. On top of this, she was present at other major events such as the ANZAC centenary commemoration service at Gallipoli and Pope Francis’s funeral. Every engagement strengthens her resolve to truly reflect who we are as Australians on the global stage.
Mostyn acknowledges the impact of global events on local communities, particularly how international conflicts may resonate within Australia’s diverse population. She works in multiple diaspora communities to promote cultural understanding and mutual respect.
“We see many conflicts around the world that come back into our diaspora communities, and I spend time in those communities. I know the leaders of those communities do not want to bring those debates and those issues here,” – Sam Mostyn
Additionally, Mostyn takes on the conundrum created when lies and disinformation seep into the public discourse. What worries Melanie the most, though, is what the disinformation campaign is doing to disrupt society.
“But if we allow disinformation, misinformation … and stop [approaching] an issue with understanding and respect, it worries me that we could descend quite quickly — as other parts of the world have — into tearing ourselves apart where we don’t need to.” – Sam Mostyn
Beyond the ceremonial aspects of her offices, Mostyn uses social media to create a highly visible and engaging dynamic that’s allowed her to connect with young Australians. This visionary approach fits perfectly with her stated intention to make the office of Governor-General more approachable and down-to-earth.
