5 October 2026 

The Governor-General remembers the remarkable life of Sir William Heseltine GCB GCVO AC QSO, the only Australian to serve as Private Secretary to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Born in Western Australia, Sir William’s distinguished career in public life included time as Private Secretary to Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies and Acting Official Secretary to the Governor-General.

Sir William then served the Royal Household at Buckingham Palace for 27 years. He was appointed as The Queen’s Private Secretary from 1986 to 1990 — serving with distinction, loyalty, and the warmth and pragmatism of an Australian.

The Governor-General extends her deepest condolences to Lady Heseltine, Sir William’s family, friends and former colleagues, and remembers with deep respect a life dedicated to Australia and the Crown.

May he rest in peace.