- Australia has announced that Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become the first woman to lead its army in its 125-year history.
- Lt Gen Coyle, currently the chief of joint capabilities, is set to take over as chief of army in July, replacing Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.
- Her appointment comes as the Australian military seeks to boost female representation and address past allegations of systematic sexual harassment and discrimination.
- Defence Minister Richard Marles hailed the appointment as a "deeply historic moment" that will inspire women serving or considering serving in the Australian Defence Force.
- In related appointments, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond has been named the new head of the Australian Defence Force, with Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley becoming the new deputy chief of navy.
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