Melbourne Anglican Diocese Elects New Archbishop

Melbourne Anglican Diocese Elects New Archbishop

The Anglican Diocese of Melbourne has elected the Right Reverend Dr Ric Thorpe as its next Archbishop, following a vote by the Archbishop Election Synod, which included approximately 760 clergy and lay representatives.

As reported by New Anglican, Dr Thorpe currently serves as the Bishop of Islington in the Diocese of London and is known for his work in church planting and revitalisation through the Gregory Centre for Church Multiplication.

“Helping the whole Church of God thrive—through healthy churches, new congregations, and revitalised ministries—is central to my mission,” he said following the announcement.

Dr Jenny George, chair of the Board of Nominators, praised Thorpe as “an experienced and visionary leader” with a passion for developing local and international future church leaders.

Having visited Melbourne often and expressed a deep connection to the region, Thorpe will succeed Archbishop Philip Freier, who retired in February after 18 years of service. His installation at St Paul’s Cathedral is scheduled for later this year.