South Australia’s (SA) Governor Hieu Van Le has had his term extended by two years and says his appointment to the role had “filled me with humility and honour.”
Le’s initial five-year term was due to expire towards the end of the year but Premier Steven Marshall says the Queen has agreed to a request for him to stay on until August 31, 2021.
He also previously served for seven years as SA’s lieutenant governor.
“This extension will take his service in a Vice-Regal position to 14 years, which is the longest continuing period of service in South Australia’s history,” Marshall said on Monday.
Le said he remained fully aware of the responsibilities which had been entrusted to him and, with the support of his wife, would continue to serve with commitment and pride.
“To have been appointed to this office filled me with humility and honour,” he said.
“We will continue to draw strength and inspiration from the stories of the South Australians we meet, from all backgrounds and walks of life.”
“I believed then and continue to believe that my appointment was a powerful symbol reflecting the inclusive and egalitarian society we enjoy in our state.”
Born in central Vietnam in 1954, Governor Le completed his schooling before undertaking studies in economics and business management at Dalat University.
Since arriving in Adelaide in 1977 with his wife, he has served on many boards and committees, relating to the arts, cultural diversity and education.
He was appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia (AO) in 2010 and a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2016, for service to the SA community.
“His excellency is an exceptional South Australian who, along with his wife Lan, has served our great state with distinction since he was appointed in 2014,” Marshall said.
“He is an inspiration and role model for all South Australians and has made an incredible contribution and I am delighted that will continue.”
