The Council for the Order of Australia is the body responsible for recommending new appointments within the Order of Australia. It was established by letters patent issued by Queen Elizabeth II on the advice of Prime Minster Gough Whitlam on 14 February 1975.[1] The prime minister of the day appoints the Council chair, and seven "community representatives", while each state and territory appoints a representative. In addition, there are three other ex officio members.