Australian Catholics and politicians have accepted the appointment of the new Pope Leo XIV, and many hope he will continue his predecessor’s emphasis on peace and social justice.

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference, provided Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost with heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Roman Catholic Church in Australia.

“The Catholic Church in Australia ensures Pope Leo XIV’s prayer, loyalty and joyful expectations for our spiritual leadership,” he said. “May his religious belief deepen with peace, unity and the gospel message of the world.”

Costelloe said the new pope demonstrated his "accessibility and willingness to listen", formerly a bishop Dicastery and Augustinian missionary in Peru.

Catholic Social Services, a social service provider representing the church, Australia said the pope’s name choice had “deep meaning” for Catholic social services. It evokes the legacy of Pope Leo XIII (1878-1903), who expresses the Church’s commitment to human dignity and social justice in his encyclopedia.

Dr. Jerry Nockles, executive director of the organization, said the pope’s election was a time when the world “hungryes the gospel, dignity and unity of vulnerable people based on compassionate leadership.”

He said: “At a time when Australia and the world face unprecedented social challenges (from growing inequality to escalating violence and social divisions), the election of Pope Leo provides a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of the church’s firm support for peace and stand with those on the edge.”

“His voice will undoubtedly challenge us all to build a more just and peaceful society in which everyone’s dignity is respected and actively pursues peace.”

Brother Mark O'Connor, head of communications for the Catholic Archdiocese of Parramatta, told him he had met the new pope, who he described as a "moderate, gentle leader."

"He is no different from Pope Francis in terms of vision, but maybe in terms of style," he said. "He is more low-key."

He said Leo XIV had been to Australia and didn't like vegetarians, but liked Tim Tams.

O'Connor said the new pope would continue the reform of the church in the vision of Pope Francis.

He said that the Pope's first words were about peace and the name he chose, which was important.

"You have to remember that Pope Leo XII is actually on the side of workers and social justice, which is really the church taking a stronger stance on social justice," he said.

Anthony Albanese extends his heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo Xiv.

"This is a time of joy and hope for Catholics all over the world." "May God bless Pope Leo XIV, may his Pope promote the cause of peace and justice in order to serve all mankind."

Health Minister Mark Butler described the appointment as “Great news”, saying: “The billion Catholics around the world, one in four Australians, considered Catholics, will be happy today after grief and mourn for a period of beloved Pope Francis.”

Catholic University of Australia said this is a new period of hope and guidance.

Its Prime Minister Martin Daubney said: “We share his commitment to strengthen dialogue and defend human rights in a world where hope and solidarity are needed.

"We are glad that his holiness will continue to be based on the legacy of his former Pope Francis, encouraging the pursuit of a more compassionate world. We join people around the world in praying for the Holy Father as he begins to lead the mission of the Catholic Church."

In a post to social media, the Australian Embassy wrote about the embassy of the Roman Catholic Church (with a clear view of the chimney of the Sistine Church): "Habemus Papam!" - Latin "We have a new pope."

The embassy held a "conference watch" event, waiting for the white smoke to appear.