NSW Governor and former Australian Defence Force General David Hurley has been named as the country's next Governor-General.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement on Sunday morning, ahead of current Governor-General Peter Cosgrove finishing his commission in March.
The announcement comes despite Labor having urged the government to extend Sir Peter's post so the next government can make the appointment.
Sir Peter has served as governor-general since March 2014, following on from Dame Quentin Bryce's near six-year stint.
PM Scott Morrison said he only had one choice for the job.
ABC
"I had only one choice, my first choice," Mr Morrison, announcing the pick at Parliament House.
"General Hurley is known for looking people straight in the eye - not up and down.
"I’m very pleased he takes on those great Australian values of someone can bring people together."
Paul Fletcher MP (left) shakes hands with Australian Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove as he's sworn into office.
AAP
“I’m very humbled and proud,” General Hurley told reporters.
The former head of the Australian Defence Force joined the Australian Army in 1972 and spent 42 years in uniform, before being appointed NSW governor in October 2014.
Mr Morrison in October downplayed speculation that former defence chief Sir Angus Houston was in the running for the job.
Sir Angus retired in 2011 after 41 years with the military.
Former foreign minister Julie Bishop was another person linked to the post, shortly after her failed bid for the Liberal leadership in August - following Malcolm Turnbull's toppling.
NSW Governor David Hurley.
