Australia’s Anglican Primate – Melbourne Archbishop Philip Freier – will step down early on 31st March next year and not seek re-election.
The Archbishop, who has served a six year term as head of the Anglican Church in Australia, will continue in his role as Archbishop of Melbourne, a position he has held since 2006.
In a letter to Australia’s Anglican bishops, the Archbishop said he was stepping down early to allow his successor to prepare for the upcoming national synod to be held in Queensland from 31st May to 5th June next year.
“I am hopeful that my early advice to you will enable a smooth transition to be made,” he said in the letter, according to a statement released by his office.
The Archbishop’s term as Primate was due to expire following next year’s synod, although it was possible he could have been elected for three further years.
A telephone conference of the Anglican Church’s board of electors is scheduled for 23rd December and they will meet on 14th March.
It is not yet known who will replace the Archbishop as Primate.
