Governor-General Quentin Bryce has had her term extended until March 2014.

Ms Bryce was sworn in on September 5, 2008 and the conventional term of a governor-general is five years.

But Prime Minister Julia Gillard says Ms Bryce has "carried out her duties with distinction" and deserves to have her term extended.

"I am pleased to announce that Her Majesty The Queen, on my advice, has agreed that Ms Bryce will serve as governor-general for an extended term until March 2014," Ms Gillard said in a statement.

"On behalf of the Government and the people of Australia, I wish the Governor-General and Ms Bryce well for the remainder of her time in office."