Canberra, Australia will get its first female chief of army, with the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle to the post. Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the appointments of new military chiefs on Monday, ahead the government unveiling its 2026 statement on defence strategy and investment later this week. The appointments commence in July.
The current navy chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will become the new chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston. Hammond has commanded submarines and the Australian fleet. He has been chief of navy since 2022.
Coyle, who enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1987, has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles. These include commander of the Task Group Afghanistan and commanding officer of the 17th Signal Regiment.
She replaces Lieutenant General Stuart as army chief. Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley was promoted to navy chief from deputy chief.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said Coyle's appointment was deeply significant for women in the ADF, as well as for those considering serving in the future.
