The Role of the Governor

The Governor (as the Queen's representative in South Australia) summons Parliament at the beginning of each session and prorogues Parliament at the end of each session. The House of Assembly is dissolved by the Governor prior to an Election, and the Governor may dissolve the Legislative Council if a deadlock occurs.

The Governor also issues the writs for general elections. The Governor assents to Bills that have passed through Parliament in the name, and on behalf, of the Sovereign. The Governor's signature and the impress of the public seal of the State are necessary formalities which represent the final stages in converting a Bill into an Act of Parliament.