Governor-General David Hurley has tested positive to COVID-19 and is isolating at his Sydney residence.
A statement from Government House said General Hurley was “experiencing only slight symptoms”.
“He is isolating at Admiralty House and will continue to follow all health advice and directions,” the statement said.
“Recent close contacts have been notified. His Excellency is double vaccinated and has received his booster.
“His Excellency will conduct his official duties virtually while isolating.“
It is unknown how long the former defence force chief had been in Sydney.
Last year, General Hurley sent an emphatic message to Australians about getting vaccinated, saying they could either get the jab or face the consequences of serious illness.
“Vaccination is the way ahead for us, to break out of where we are at the moment. Otherwise, we get into a cycle that none of us wants to be in,” he said.
“If people don’t want to get vaccinated, that’s their decision, but they should be aware that if there are any consequences for that decision, they’re responsible for them. It’s a personal decision but with that comes a consequence – ill health for you and detriment to the rest of the community.
“So make up your own mind, but I would urge everybody to get vaccinated. It’s not as if (vaccination) is something brand new. This is tried and proven. This is the route for us to control different threats to us. So follow this one. Do it.”
Several other prominent figures, including Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, have also tested positive to the virus in recent days.
NSW Governor Margaret Beazley also confirmed on Sunday that she had tested positive for COVID-19. She was diagnosed on Saturday, while her husband Dennis Wilson has also tested positive.
“The Governor and her husband are fully vaccinated,” a statement from NSW Government House read.“(She) is experiencing mild flu-like symptoms and is resting at Government House.
“The Governor’s immediate program has been cancelled in line with advice from NSW Health.”
NSW on Sunday recorded its deadliest day since the COVID-19 pandemic began in January 2020, with 30,062 new cases and 16 deaths.