Australia Appoints First Female Army Chief of Staff in 125 Years

Lieutenant General Susan Coyle | Photo: Admiral David Johnston/ X

CANBERRA – Lieutenant General Susan Coyle has been appointed Chief of the Australian Army, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the army's 125-year history.

Currently Chief of Joint Capabilities, she will take up her post in July, succeeding Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the appointment as historic. With nearly 40 years of experience, Lieutenant General Coyle has held senior command positions in Afghanistan and the Middle East.

Lt. Gen. Susan Coyle

Her appointment comes amid a wave of criticism surrounding allegations of systemic sexual harassment and discrimination within the army.