Susan Coyle leads Australian Army

Coyle, an officer with nearly 40 years of service, will take over the role in July, replacing the retiring Simon Stuart.

Her appointment is seen as a significant milestone for the Australian Defence Force as it seeks to increase female representation in its senior ranks.

In the same reshuffle, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond was named the new Chief of the Defence Force.

The new leadership team will oversee Australia's military strategy during a period of heightened regional and global security challenges.