The Queen's representative in Australia, Peter Hollingworth, bowed to pressure yesterday, becoming the first Governor General to stand aside in the 102-year history of the office.

Dr Hollingworth, accused of raping a young woman, Annie Jarmyn, at a church camp in the 1960s, will step down pending the outcome of legal action. The move is said to be temporary, but few observers expect the former Anglican archbishop of Brisbane to resume office even if his name is cleared.

The move was announced by the Prime Minister, John Howard, who made clear that Dr Hollingworth's future was in doubt. "It is only when the proceedings have been resolved that proper consideration can be given to his longer-term tenure," he said.

Ms Jarmyn committed suicide last month aged 57 after launching the civil claim in Victoria. Dr Hollingworth went on television four days ago to deny that he raped her but was already under pressure after a church inquiry found he had protected a paedophile priest.

The Tasmanian Governor, Sir Guy Green, will deputise for Dr Hollingworth, whose lawyers will ask the court to expedite the Jarmyn action. Dr Hollingworth, who has resisted calls to resign for the past 15 months, said last night: "In taking this decision, I have always been mindful of maintaining the integrity and dignity of the office of the Governor General of Australia."

Buckingham Palace said the Queen would be guided in the matter by Mr Howard.