Australia has announced that a woman will lead its army for the first time in history, as part of a broader restructuring of the country’s defence leadership.
Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, currently serving as Chief of Joint Capabilities, will become Chief of Army starting in July, the government confirmed in a statement. She will succeed Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.
The appointment marks a historic milestone for the Australian Defence Force (ADF), which has never before had a woman in charge of any of its military branches in its 125-year history.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the decision as a landmark moment for the country.
“From July, we will have the first female Chief of Army in the history of the Australian Army,” Albanese said.
Defence Minister Richard Marles called the appointment “a deeply historic moment,” adding that it would be particularly significant for women currently serving in the armed forces and those considering military careers.
Coyle, 55, joined the army in 1987 and has held multiple senior command roles throughout her career. Her promotion is also seen as part of broader efforts to increase female representation in the Australian military.
Women currently make up around 21% of the Australian Defence Force and 18.5% of senior leadership positions, with a target of 25% female participation by 2030.
