Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, currently serving as chief of joint capabilities, will assume the role of Chief of Army in July, replacing Simon Stuart, according to an official government statement.Her appointment comes as the military works to increase female representation amid ongoing concerns over systemic sexual harassment and discrimination within its ranks.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the move as a landmark moment, noting it marks the first time in the Australian Army’s 125-year history that a woman will hold the top position.Defence Minister Richard Marles also hailed the decision as “deeply historic,” emphasizing its significance in inspiring both current and future female personnel.
He echoed Coyle’s sentiment that visibility is key to progress, saying her achievement would encourage more women to pursue military careers.Coyle, 55, joined the military in 1987 and has held several senior command positions. She will also become the first woman to lead any branch of Australia’s armed forces.
Currently, women make up about 21% of the Australian Defence Force, including 18.5% in senior leadership roles. The ADF aims to increase overall female participation to 25% by 2030.Her appointment follows a class action lawsuit filed last October, alleging the ADF failed to protect thousands of female personnel from sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination.
In a broader leadership reshuffle, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond has been appointed Chief of the ADF, succeeding Admiral David Johnston. Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley will take over as head of the navy.
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