Changes at the top.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has recommended a raft of senior ADF leadership changes to the Governor-General.

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.