WA Governor Chris Dawson to finish up end of year

The search is on for a new WA Governor, with the Cook Government confirming Chris Dawson will finish up in the role on December 31.

“The Governor’s term was extended until 31 December 2026, following approval by the King on 18 June 2026,” a State Government spokesperson told The Sunday Times.

“An announcement regarding the new Governor will be made in accordance with the required protocols.”

WA’s former Police Commissioner, Governor Dawson was sworn in as the 34th Governor of WA in July 2022. He succeeded former federal ALP leader Kim Beazley.

Speculation is mounting about who could succeed Governor Dawson.

So far, there has only been one female WA Governor — Kerry Sanderson AO, succeeding Malcolm McCusker in 2014.

And WA has never had an Indigenous Governor.

Within government circles, names that have been speculated on include former Coalition Indigenous Minister Ken Wyatt, burns specialist Dr Fiona Wood, former Aboriginal and Torres Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar, Professor Fiona Stanley and social justice, human rights and education advocate Professor Colleen Hayward.

One of the highlights of Governor Dawson’s tenure as governor was delivering a historic apology over the Pinjarra massacre, which saw scores of Aboriginal people killed almost 200 years ago.

“As Governor of Western Australia, I come to you today to say I am deeply sorry for the actions of my predecessor and for the pain and suffering he caused,” Governor Dawson told a gathering of more than 100 people at the 2025 ceremony.

Amongst his many duties, Governor Dawson last month (October) represented His Majesty King Charles III at the funeral of Sir William Heseltine, who served as Private Secretary to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Sir William, was aged 96, and was Queen Elizabeth II’s fifth Private Secretary, serving from 1986 to 1990 after two decades in the Palace as Press Secretary, Assistant and Deputy Private Secretary.

In a statement released to The Sunday Times this week, Chris Dawson said being WA Governor had been “one of the greatest privileges of my life”.

“Following correspondence from His Majesty The King, the Premier has officially confirmed that my term as Governor will conclude on 31 December 2026,” Governor Dawson said.

“Being able to serve as the Governor of Western Australia over the last four-and-a-half years has been one of the greatest pleasures and privileges of my life.

“It has given myself and Darrilyn the opportunity to represent, support and honour the people and numerous organisations across Western Australia.”

Governor Dawson said an announcement on his replacement would be made by the Premier.

“An official announcement will be made by the Premier in due course as to the incoming Governor and any interim arrangements,” he said.

Just last week, Governor Dawson reflected on public life, and the importance of respecting politicians and leaders after the alleged attack on Independent MP Helen Haines which resulted in both her legs being amputated.

“There is no cause, no grievance and no frustration that is ever served by injuring or intimidating a public figure or threatening their staff,” Governor Dawson said.

“It does not advance an argument. It does not change a policy. It damages lives, and it damages democracy.

“No person, regardless of their political affiliation or public profile, should ever have to fear for their physical safety, their mental wellbeing, or the safety of their colleagues and families just for turning up to work.

“Exercising care, kindness and respect in our public life are not soft options. They are the foundations of a stable and successful society. They are deeply embedded in the Australian character, and they are needed now.”