Australia appoints first-ever female General to lead Army

Lieutenant General Susan Coyle has been named Australia’s Chief of Army, becoming the first woman to command the nation’s army in its 125-year history.

Defence Minister Richard Marles called it a “deeply historic” appointment.

Coyle has served for three decades, with deployments in the Solomon Islands, Afghanistan, and the Middle East.

“Her achievement means that she will be the first woman to command a service in Australian history,” Marles said. “And it is a deeply historic moment. As Susan said to me, you cannot be what you cannot see.”

The Australian Army is undergoing major modernisation, including long-range firepower, drones, and advanced combat technologies. Coyle emphasized that her experience in areas like cyber-warfare will be vital for her command role.

“This breadth of experience provides a strong foundation for the responsibilities of command and the trust placed in me,” she said.