A Northern Rivers woman with strong New England ties will take the top job in the Australian Army, with Lieutenant General Susan Coyle appointed as the nation’s next Chief of Army.
Born in Kyogle, Lieutenant General Coyle will become the first woman to lead the Australian Army when she takes over the role in July, subject to approval by the Governor-General. Regarded as a strong contender for the Chief of Defence Force role that was also announced today, Coyle is the first female head of any defence service.
Her journey to the Army’s top rank began here in the New England, enlisting in the Army Reserve in 1987 with the local 12/16 Hunter River Lancers.
She later studied at the University of New England as part of her ongoing education as part of a near four-decade military career.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the appointment marked a historic moment for the nation’s defence forces.
“From July we will have the first ever female Chief of Army in the Australian Army’s 125 year history,” he said.
“The Australian Defence Force is tireless in its efforts to keep Australians safe – and I am so pleased to announce these new appointments.”
Lieutenant General Coyle is currently Chief of Joint Capabilities, overseeing space, cyber and national support functions, and has served across tactical, operational and strategic roles throughout her career.
Her command experience spans Forces Command, Joint Task Force 633, the 6th Brigade and Task Group Afghanistan, with operational deployments in Timor-Leste, the Solomon Islands, Afghanistan and the Middle East.
Despite the scale of that career, she pointed back to her beginnings in the Reserve as central to her leadership.
“I began my service in 1987 as a proud Reserve soldier with the 12/16 Hunter River Lancers,” she said.
“As I prepare to assume this next appointment, I do so with humility, a deep appreciation for the experiences I have been afforded, and an unwavering commitment to steward our people well.”
The appointment comes as part of a broader reshuffle of senior Australian Defence Force leadership, with Vice Admiral Mark Hammond to be elevated to Chief of the Defence Force, while current Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart prepares to retire.
Lieutenant General Coyle said her focus would remain on people and delivering on Defence’s mission.
“Like those who have gone before me, I will lead our soldiers and support our families so that Army continues to deliver on Defence’s mission,” she said.
“It is an absolute honour to be selected as the 42nd Chief of Army.”
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