Mark Short Chosen as New Primate of the Anglican Church of Australia

The Anglican Church of Australia has appointed Bishop Mark Short as its new Primate following a decisive meeting of the Board of Electors held today in Sydney.

Currently serving as the Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn, Short will take over from Archbishop Geoffrey Smith, who announced his retirement effective October 31 after six years of guiding the Church through challenging times with a focus on unity and pastoral care.

With a conservative majority on the Board, Short emerged as a balanced choice, bridging the gap between the more traditional candidates from Sydney and Tasmania and the progressive voices from other dioceses.

Before his episcopal ministry, Short worked as an economist and journalist. He trained at Moore Theological College and earned a doctorate from Durham University in the UK. His diverse experience includes parish leadership, regional ministry, and national roles such as National Director of the Bush Church Aid Society. He was elected Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn in 2018 and installed in 2019.

As bishop, Short has prioritized outreach and inclusivity. He provided vital support during the devastating 2019–20 bushfires and has championed initiatives like Hope25, multicultural ministries, and partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Despite these efforts, the diocese faces ongoing challenges such as declining parish numbers and clergy shortages, especially in rural areas. The 2024 Addressing Disparity report highlighted issues around diocesan culture and gender equity. In response, Short has pledged to form a commission to improve women's leadership opportunities within the Church.

The Primate is elected by a 36-member Board of Electors, including all diocesan bishops, 12 clergy, and 12 lay representatives from the General Synod. Candidates must be serving diocesan bishops under 70 years old and secure majority approval across all three groups.

While the Primate does not have direct authority over dioceses, the role includes presiding over the General Synod and its Standing Committee, providing national leadership, and representing the Church at international Anglican gatherings. The term lasts six years, with the possibility of renewal.

Bishop Short will officially assume his duties well before the next General Synod in August 2026.

Bishop Mark Short, newly elected Primate of the Anglican Church of Australia

Originally published by Deborah Bird on Another Place To Party.