Our Protocol and International Visits Branch provides high-level support for the Prime Minister’s overseas visits and Guest of Government visits to Australia, as well as virtual meetings and summits with Heads of State and Heads of Government.
We also support and coordinate ceremonial and state occasions involving the Prime Minister, including State Funeral and Memorial Services, Ceremonial Welcomes at Parliament House, official hospitality in association with the Prime Minister’s XI Cricket Match, and events of national significance.
Ceremonial Welcomes
A Ceremonial Welcome is held to honour a visit to Australia by a Head of State (e.g. Royalty, President) or Head of Government (e.g. Prime Minister).
The Governor-General hosts a Ceremonial Welcome for a Head of State and it is usually held at Government House in Canberra.
This ceremony includes:
- Australian Defence Force (ADF) full guard of honour (100 military persons)
- national anthems
- 21 gun salute
- official welcoming party.
The Prime Minister hosts a Ceremonial Welcome for a Head of Government and it is usually held at Parliament House.
This ceremony includes:
- ADF half guard of honour (50 military persons)
- national anthems
- 19 gun salute
- official welcoming party.
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