Head of navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond to take over as Australia's Chief of Defence
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The head of Australia's Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will take over as the next Chief of Defence as part of a major overhaul of the Defence Force's most senior roles.
It comes after two of Australia's most senior military leaders - current Chief of Defence Chief Admiral David Johnston and Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart - announced their retirement.
Chief of Joint Capabilities Susan Coyle will be taking over as Chief of Army - the first woman to hold the position - while Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley will fill Hammond's shoes as Chief of the Navy.
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The current Chief of Navy, Vice-Admiral Mark Hammond, who will become a full Admiral, will be the new ADF chief. ADF
In accepting his position this morning, Vice Admiral Hammond said he was looking forward to his new role during "the challenging times ahead".
He also noted that his appointment reflected the "more amphibious" direction that the ADF was taking.
Australia's acquirement of nuclear-powered submarines over the next decade under AUKUS will form a key focus of his position, in a move the government hopes will secure national security as well as drive economic prosperity.
Hammond has been Chief of Navy since his appointment to the role in 2022.
He has served in the navy for the past 40 years, at first in frigates, and then in and later commanding submarines and the Australian Fleet.
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Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become the first woman in Australian history to lead the Army from July. Lauren Larking
Hammond, Coyle and Buckley will commence in their new roles in July when the current Chief of the ADF, Admiral David Johnston, will step down after more than 48 years in the armed forces.
"The Australian Defence Force is tireless in its efforts to keep Australians safe – and I am so pleased to announce these new appointments," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
"From July we will have the first ever female Chief of Army in the Australian Army's 125-year history."
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