Australian PM Unveils Defence Leadership Overhaul, Names First Ever Female Army Chief

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Newly appointed Chief of Army Lieutenant General Susan Coyle pose for photographers after a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on April 13, 2026. AAP Image/Mick TsikasPrime Minister Anthony Albanese has overhauled his country’s military leadership including its “first ever female Chief of Army.”Albanese announced three major appointments with including installing a new Chief of the Defence Force, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, which is the highest ranking officer in the Australian Defence Force (ADF).