Ceremonial and visits

Our Ceremonial and Hospitality Branch provides high-level support for the Prime Minister’s overseas visits and Guest of Government visits to Australia.

We also support and coordinate ceremonial and state occasions including State Funeral and Memorial Services, the Prime Minister’s XI Cricket Match, COAG meetings and Ceremonial Welcomes.

A Ceremonial Welcome is held to honour a visit to Australia by a Head of State (eg. Royalty, President) or Head of Government (eg. Prime Minister).

The Ceremonial Welcome for a Head of State is hosted by the Governor-General and is usually held at Government House in Canberra. It includes an Australian Defence Force (ADF) full guard of honour (100 military persons), national anthems, a 21 gun salute and an official welcoming party.

The Ceremonial Welcome for a Head of Government is hosted by the Prime Minister and is usually held at Parliament House. It includes an ADF half guard of honour (50 military persons), national anthems, a 19 gun salute and an official welcoming party.