Governor-General announced as Patron of Guide Dogs Australia

Guide Dogs Australia is honoured to announce Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, as Patron of Guide Dogs Australia.

Her Excellency’s patronage provides an important opportunity to raise awareness of the experiences, capabilities and contributions of Australians who are blind or have low vision, and to champion a more accessible and inclusive nation – priorities that sit at the heart of the work of Guide Dogs organisations across Australia.

Lee Kumutat, National Advocacy and Policy Manager at Guide Dogs Australia and a Guide Dog Handler, welcomed the announcement and the opportunity to further elevate the voices and experiences of people who are blind or have low vision.

“Guide Dogs’ expertise and influence, alongside the Governor-General’s integrity, warmth and commitment to social justice will create an incredibly positive collective impact,” Kumutat said.

“People who are blind or have low vision are met with systemic barriers every day. The Governor-General, lending her influence, experience and belief in social justice, will support Guide Dogs in our mission to remove those barriers.”

Representing Guide Dogs Australia, Guide Dogs Victoria CEO Nicky Long said the organisation was deeply honoured to welcome the Governor-General as Patron.

“Her Excellency’s commitment to inclusion, equality and stronger communities aligns closely with the work of Guide Dogs organisations across Australia,” Long said.

“We look forward to working together to highlight the capabilities, experiences and contributions of Australians who are blind or have low vision, and to champion communities, workplaces and public spaces that are accessible and inclusive.”

The patronage comes ahead of an important milestone for Guide Dogs Victoria, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT and Guide Dogs SA/NT, which will each celebrate 70 years in 2027. As Guide Dogs prepare to mark 70 years of working alongside people who are blind or have low vision, Her Excellency’s patronage provides an important opportunity to recognise that history while looking firmly to the future.

Guide Dogs Australia looks forward to working with the Office of the Governor-General to formally celebrate and share Her Excellency’s patronage with Guide Dogs communities across the country.