Collectively, we must do more than simply watch, with resignation and a feeling of powerlessness, reports on the evening news about the latest terrorist atrocity.

For us Australians, Singapore also represents sacred soil. Almost 2000 Australians died here in the defense of your island country and our neighborhood.

It’s vital that the governor-general is both above politics and seen to be above politics because he is the constitutional umpire.

Sustaining Australia’s high standing and strong alliance with the United States is a key priority,

The government is committed to deepening ties with North Asia — building on mature links with Japan, expanding ties with China and continuing support for peaceful outcomes on the Korean Peninsula.

I want to give my total commitment to the Australian people that I will endeavour to be a governor general of the people and for the people.