Premier announces Western Australia's next Governor

6/6/05
Premier Geoff Gallop has used the Foundation Day holiday to announce that the Chancellor of the University of WA and retired senior public servant, Dr Ken Michael, will be our next Governor.
Dr Gallop said Her Majesty the Queen had been pleased to approve his recommendation for the appointment of Dr Michael to succeed Lieutenant General John Sanderson. Dr Michael would formally take up the appointment on Australia Day next year.
"Ken Michael is a much respected person who has an extensive knowledge of Western Australia and its people," the Premier said.
"He had a distinguished career in the public service and has behaved with the highest level of integrity throughout his working life.
"I believe he is a person well suited to the position of Governor and I congratulate him on his appointment."
Ken Michael and his wife Julie have two children and one grandchild.
Dr Michael is currently Chancellor of the University of Western Australia, chairman of the East Perth Redevelopment Authority, chairman of the WA Museum and a member of the Economic Regulation Authority.
He was formerly Commissioner of Main Roads, Public Service Commissioner, WA Independent Gas Pipelines Access Regulator, Acting Western Australian Independent Rail Access Regulator and Chairman of Commissioners for the City of Albany - also Town and Shire of Albany.
Dr Michael was the recipient the General Division of the Order of Australia in 1996, named Western Australian Citizen of the Year in 2001 and awarded the Centenary of Federation Medal in 2003 for service to the public, engineering and the Greek Community.
Aged 67, Dr Michael is Australian born of Greek parents and is fiercely proud of his heritage. He is very much looking forward to the challenge of serving the people of WA in his new role.
The Government has accepted Lieutenant General Sanderson's offer to remain in the post until October 31 this year, to help with the transition process.
"I am confident Dr Michael is well equipped to continue the outstanding contribution of Lieutenant General Sanderson," Dr Gallop said.
Premier's Office - 9222 9475