Post by RSL NSW

On behalf of RSL NSW members, congratulations to Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM, CSC, DSM on her ascension to the 42nd Chief of the Australian Army, the first woman to lead the Australian Army in its 125-year history. From enlisting in the Army Reserves in 1987 to commanding at the highest levels - including as Commander Task Group Afghanistan and Commander Forces Command - Susan's journey has been one of extraordinary service to our country. Lieutenant General Coyle brings to the role more than 40 years of distinguished service, including operational command in Afghanistan and the Middle East, the historic distinction of becoming the first woman to command Joint Task Force 633. As Chief of Joint Capabilities, Lieutenant General Coyle has shaped the approach to integration across the joint force, and its engagement with emerging technologies, particularly in space and cyber. She is the first service chief to come from Joint Capabilities Command, a choice that reflects where the Defence is heading, and accelerates the transformation already underway. Congratulations, Lieutenant General Coyle. 📷 Defence Images - On 8 July 2026, the Change of Command Ceremony for the Chief of Army between Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC and Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM occurred at the Field Marshal Sir Thomas Blamey Forecourt, Russell Office, Canberra.