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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has recommended a raft of senior ADF leadership changes to the Governor-General.
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Vice Chief of the Defence Force Vice Admiral David Johnston AC, RAN, will be appointed as the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing retiring Chief General Angus Campbell AO, DSC, the Prime Minister’s office confirmed this morning (9 April).
The changes are subject to the Governor-General’s consideration and approval, with the changes expected to take effect in July.
VADM Johnston joined the Australian Defence Force in 1978 and has served as the Vice Chief of the Defence Force since 2018.
Under the appointments, Air Marshal Robert Chipman AO, CSC, will be appointed as Vice Chief of Defence Force, having served as Chief of the Air Force since July 2022.
In his place, Air Vice-Marshal Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM, will be appointed Chief of the Air Force, having served as the head of military strategic commitments.
The Prime Minister’s office has also confirmed that the Chief of the Defence Force and secretary of Defence, Greg Moriarty, recommended several additional appointments within the ADF to Minister for Defence Richard Marles.
Under the recommendations, Major General Susan Coyle, AM, CSC, DSM, is expected to replace Lieutenant General John Frewen, AO, DSC, as Chief of Joint Capabilities.
These recommendations will also see Rear Admiral Justin Jones, CSC, replace Lieutenant General Greg Bilton, AO, CSC, as the Chief of Joint Operations. RADM Jones is currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Joint Operations.
A civilian appointment will succeed Lieutenant General Gavan Reynolds, AO, as the inaugural Chief of Defence Intelligence.
“I’d like to congratulate all personnel for accepting these appointments and leading the Australian Defence Force with the values and tenets the Australian public expect of our military leaders,” Prime Minister Albanese said.
“I look forward to working with you to plan and deliver a more integrated and focused Defence Force.
“I’d personally like to thank General Campbell for his service over many years.
“General Campbell has served our nation with great distinction during a period of significant strategic change and cultural reform.”
