Appointment of new defence force leadership

The Coalition congratulates the incoming Chief of the Defence Force, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN, on his appointment. The Coalition also acknowledges and welcomes the newly appointed Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, and newly appointed Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN. There is no greater responsibility of government than to keep its citizens safe.

It is vital that the Australian Defence Force is ready to face growing regional and global challenges. Never in our recent history has Australia’s security faced such an uncertain, contested, and rapidly evolving strategic environment. We wish our new service Chiefs every success as they work to secure Australia and lead the men and women of our defence forces.

The Opposition also acknowledges retiring Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, and retiring Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC. The Coalition thanks them for their service and for the personal sacrifices they and their families have made over their decades of service to their country. We wish them all the best for the next chapter of their lives.