Defence appoints new CDF and Chiefs of Navy and Army

The Australian Government has appointed Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN, the current Chief of Navy, as the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) with effect from July 2026, subject to the Governor General’s consideration and approval. Defence has appointed Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN, on promotion, as Hammond’s successor as Chief of Navy (CN).

At the same time, Defence has appointed the current Chief of Joint Capabilities, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, as the new Chief of Army (CA), effective at the same time She is the first woman to hold this appointment. These statutory appointments will be presented to the Federal Executive Council.

“It is an honour to confirm these senior appointments to lead the Australian Defence Force,” said Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence.  “I know that in these roles, each of them will continue to make an enormous contribution to the safety and security of Australia, and I look forward to working with them to do so.

The officers that Hammond and Coyle are succeeding will both retire: Admiral David Johnstone AC RAN as CDF, and LTGEN Simon Stuart AO DSC as CA. The next Chief of Joint Capabilities will be appointed in due course, says Defence.

The Government said it extends its sincere gratitude to Admiral Johnston and Lieutenant General Stuart, and their families, for their longstanding commitment to the defence of Australia, their service to country and their lasting contribution to the ADF.