The state’s 27th governor took the oaths of office today before a gathering of about 250 dignitaries in the grand ballroom at Government House.
Mr de Kretser replaces John Landy, who is retiring after a five year term.
Migrant roots
As a nine year old Mr de Kretser migrated from Sri Lanka, growing up in Australia, he went on to become a leading scientist and world-renowned infertility expert.
The governor said he would draw on his experience as a medical practitioner, scientist, educator, father, grandfather and Christian to fulfill the role.
Mr de Kretser also spoke about his goal of boosting support for migrants.
He said there was a need for greater compassion within Australia and likened his style of leadership to former governor Sir William Deane.
"I think I just appreciated his philosophy, his willingness to discuss issues that were important to society and just his ideas I think were wonderful," Mr de Kretser told reporters after the ceremony.
Eminent citizen
Victorian Premier Steve Bracks said the new governor was one of the state’s most eminent citizens, who epitomised the qualities that made the state strong.
“I think his appointment as a governor, coming from a strong bio-technology and scientific background, will say to the rest of the world that we value our scientists enormously," he said.
"We should be known and we want to be known in Victoria as valuing our scientists and our research and our potential to turn that research into good commercial opportunities to assist in curing some of the attractable diseases around the world." Mr Bracks added.
Chief Justice Marilyn Warren was also inaugurated as lieutenant-governor, replacing Lady Marigold Southey.