Lieutenant General Susan Coyle has been named the next Chief of Army, the first woman to lead any branch of the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The announcement was made on Monday by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as part of a wider reshuffle of top defence leadership ahead of the country’s upcoming 2026 defence strategy.

Coyle, who currently serves as Chief of Joint Capabilities, will officially take charge in July, replacing Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, who has held the position since 2022.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, Coyle began her journey in the Army Reserves in 1987. She has held several key command roles, including leading Forces Command and Joint Task Force 633, as well as overseeing operations in Afghanistan. She also brings strong experience in cyber and information warfare.

Speaking about her appointment, Coyle said her broad experience across different levels of command has prepared her well for the role and responsibilities ahead.

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The leadership changes also include Vice Admiral Mark Hammond being appointed as the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston. Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley will take over as Chief of the Navy.

Officials described the move as historic and important for gender representation in the military. Women currently make up about 21% of the ADF and less than one-fifth of senior leadership roles. The military aims to increase female participation to 25% by 2030.

The appointment is seen as a step forward despite ongoing concerns about gender equality and past allegations of misconduct within the force.