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Community united on need to protect Southern Beaches

More than 2,200 people have had their say on how City of Newcastle should respond to threats to the coastline between Bar Beach and Merewether, demonstrating strong community interest in the future of the Southern Beaches.

A consultation report, released today, outlines feedback on a range of proposed management options including mass sand nourishment, protection structures like seawalls and managed retreat.

The results show that while the community holds diverse opinions on how risks such as erosion and sea level rise should be managed, there is clear recognition of the challenges facing this stretch of coastline and broad agreement that action is needed.

No single management option attracted overwhelming support.

However, City of Newcastle’s Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee Chair Cr Joel Pringle said it was encouraging the consultation gave the participants an opportunity to hear and understand the seriousness of the risks and the complexity of responding to them.

“Newcastle is known for its sandy beaches, world-renowned surf breaks and magnificent coastline,” Cr Pringle said.

“Our community values these places deeply and the consultation shows they recognise impacts that climate change is already having on our coastline, and that this will intensify into the future.

“The feedback shows that managing coastal risk isn’t simple. Especially where significant interventions might be required.

“It involves balancing community values and expectations with technical feasibility, environmental responsibility, economic sustainability and broader social impacts for current and future generations. And also, as this piece of work does, bringing local residents on the journey of understanding with us.”

City of Newcastle is developing a long-term Coastal Management Program (CMP) for the area between Nobbys Headland and Glenrock Lagoon, collectively known as the Southern Beaches.

As part of this process, community members were asked to consider potential management options for the area between Bar Beach and Merewether, which is considered at most immediate risk from coastal erosion and other coastal hazards.

Engagement was strong across Newcastle, with more than 800 people participating in nine in-person consultation events. Online engagement included around 430 responses to an online poll and almost 1000 responses to the online survey, along with seven detailed submissions from key stakeholders and community members.

The feedback highlighted a wide spectrum of perspectives. Mass sand nourishment was the least favoured option overall, with participants raising concerns about cost, effectiveness, environmental impacts, longevity and ongoing maintenance requirements.

Protection structures such as seawalls were supported by some respondents for their perceived ability to retain existing assets, access and amenity.

Where managed retreat was supported, it was often promoted as a more sustainable, adaptive and environmentally responsible long‑term response to coastal hazards, particularly in the context of a changing climate.

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Environment & Sustainability Marnie Kikken said the consultation reinforced there is no single management option that will meet all expectations.

“This consultation has shown that while there is strong alignment around the need to protect our coastline, people prioritise different options to do so,” Ms Kikken said.

“Comments reflected a wide range of sometimes competing views about infrastructure retention, environmental protection, traffic impacts, governance, cost, and the role of expert advice versus community input.

“That diversity of views is an important part of community engagement and we’re pleased to see that most participants are highly aware of the complex issues facing our Southern Beaches.

“Our role is to carefully consider all of this feedback alongside rigorous technical, environmental and economic assessments, as well as the State Government requirements we must meet, to ensure decisions are responsible, defensible and in the best long-term interests of the whole community.”

City of Newcastle will continue working through the feedback in developing the Southern Beaches Coastal Management Program..

Visit City of Newcastle’s Have Your Say page to find out more and read the detailed consultation report.

Big John awarded big honour for charity efforts

Almost 50 years of raising money, toys and awareness for families in need has earned Big John Young Newcastle’s greatest acknowledgement after being named a Freeman of the City today.

Since coordinating the first Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run in 1978, Big John has dedicated decades of his life to helping the event grow into one of the region’s most well-known and largest charity drives, with more than 13,000 motorcycle riders turning out in support in 2025.

New Freeman of the City Big John Young with Cr Declan Clausen.Councillor Declan Clausen presented Big John Young with the honour at a special event at City Hall, surrounded by family, friends and fellow Freemen.

Cr Clausen said Big John’s contribution to charity and community across the region has been remarkable, touching the lives of thousands of people.

“We take it as a given that once a year, our streets are filled by thousands of motorcycles in the name of raising money, but it wouldn’t have ever happened without Big John,” Cr Clausen said.

“His commitment to bringing the community together to ensure disadvantaged children and families have a present under the Christmas tree to unwrap or the extra support they need has been monumental.

“Big John has become an advocate for dozens of charities and organisations across Newcastle and the builder of a vast community fundraising network across motorcycle clubs, businesses, charities, and volunteers.”

Big John’s charity efforts, which earned him a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours, have also included raising money for organisations such as the Salvation Army, John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Camp Quality, Ronald McDonald House, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and the NBN 3 Newcastle Telethon.

With a heart as big as his impressive six foot seven stature, Big John said he was honoured and humbled to be named Newcastle’s newest Freeman.

“I’m proud to have been able to use my presence and reputation to bring the community together, raise awareness and funds for charities, and most importantly, support families and children that have needed a little extra help,” Big John said.

“The Newcastle Toy Run is my greatest legacy. We started with about 30 participants in the late 1970s, and last year in 2025 had 13,000 motorcycles with thousands more lining the streets to raise money and awareness for disadvantaged families and children across the region.

“Newcastle and its people have shaped the person that I am today, and this city taught me the value of looking out for one another and believing that acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others.

“Our motto is that every child deserves to smile, and a child’s smile will light the world. I’m proud to have helped make our world a brighter place.”

The Freeman of the City award is Newcastle’s highest honour, conferred upon Novocastrians for outstanding achievement and service to the city or to humanity.

Big John joins an esteemed list of 21 other Novocastrians to be named Freeman of the City, including civic leader Carol Duncan OAM, Surfest co-founder Warren Smith, and scientist and researcher Laureate Professor Roger Smith.

Free mental health support for kids in the Illawarra

Families in the Illawarra now have access to free mental health and wellbeing support for their children at the Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub in Fairy Meadow.

Labor is delivering on its commitment to universal, free healthcare by building a network of more than 33 Medicare Mental Health Centres in New South Wales and four Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs.

This network puts mental health support close by and takes pressure off families by saving time and money.

Kids Hubs provide free mental health and wellbeing services for children aged 0-12 who may be experiencing mild to moderate developmental, emotional, social or behavioural challenges.

Today marks the official opening of the Illawarra site to support children’s mental health.

The Illawarra location is one of four Kids Hubs being rolled out across NSW as part of a $50.8 million joint investment of $25.4 million from each of the Australian and NSW Governments to support children’s mental health.

The refurbished building in Fairy Meadow has been purposely designed to make children and families feel welcome, with a range of dedicated treatment spaces.

The Illawarra Kids Hub will also provide outreach services to Warilla, Kiama and Nowra through Community Health Centres, ensuring families across the region can access support.

Mental health clinicians, allied health professionals, care navigators at the service will tailor care to the needs of each child and family who visits.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“This is a significant investment in the wellbeing of children across the Illawarra. Early intervention changes lives, and this Kids Hub will help families get support when it matters most.

“Having a dedicated, purpose-built space here in the Illawarra means families can access high quality mental health care without travelling or paying out of pocket.

NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“Free, accessible healthcare is a cornerstone of a strong public health system, and every family deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their circumstances.

“This service ensure children and parents in the Illawarra can get the support they need, when they need it, without cost being a barrier.

“People across the Illawarra have been calling for easier access to mental health support for young people and this is a great example of how the Minns and Albanese Labor Government are working together to ensure this care is delivered.”

Assistant Minister McBride:

“The Albanese Labor Government is putting mental health at the heart of Medicare and services in the centre of communities.

“The new Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub will provide a safe and welcoming place for Illawarra children and their parents, carers and kin.

“We know that early intervention is crucial, and that’s why we’re removing barriers to accessing support.

“We’re proud to partner with the NSW Government to deliver more mental health services, like Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs, across the state.”

Alison Byrnes, Member for Cunningham:

“Accessing services and support before behavioural and mental health challenges escalate ensures better outcomes for children and families.

“I’m delighted that this free local hub will make it easier and more affordable for Illawarra families to access help early, freeing up specialist services for those who need it most.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:

“This is a welcome expansion in local mental health services. Opening the Illawarra Kids Hub not only provides a central location for services but also a series of outreach services to provide accessible services across the region.

“The Illawarra Kids Hub at Fairy Meadow is well-located with a mix of transport options available for people to get to it and get the support they need, whether it’s getting advice or accessing health professionals.”

First look at new public primary school and preschool for Worrigee

Families in Worrigee have had a first look at their new public primary school and preschool, with the Minns Labor Government releasing designs as planning progresses.

The new public primary school will ensure families in the rapidly developing suburbs of Worrigee and South Nowra can access a world-class public education close to home.

The primary school will have 24 modern classrooms, three support learning classrooms, a multipurpose hall with a covered outdoor learning area (COLA), library and special programs rooms, a sports field and multipurpose sports court.

The co-located preschool, one of 100 new public preschools the Minns Labor Government is opening in 2027, will have capacity for up to 120 children every week, ensuring the community will have access to high-quality early education.

It is one of four new public preschools being delivered in the Shoalhaven area, with others being built at Bomaderry Public School, Greenwell Point Public School and Sanctuary Point Public School. In contrast the former Liberal and National government did not build a single new public preschool during 12 years in office.

The new Worrigee public preschool is scheduled to open in 2027, while the new primary school is set to welcome students in 2028. The planning application for the public preschool is currently open via the NSW Planning Portal.

The new school and preschool will cater for local families amid significant growth in South Nowra, which has seen a 150 per cent increase in new dwellings over the past decade.

The new public school at Worrigee will alleviate pressure on Nowra Public School and Nowra East Public School while also easing traffic in the broader area by reducing the number of students and parents having to travel across suburbs.

The Minns Labor Government has committed $2.9 billion to upgrade and build new schools in regional areas as part of its commitment to rebuild public education across the state.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“The Minns Labor Government is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and building a brighter future for our children. This new school and public preschool will play a vital role in supporting the educational needs of families in the Worrigee and South Nowra areas.

“The new Worrigee public school and public preschool has been long time coming for the families across South Nowra, who were neglected by the former Liberal National Government.

“We are committed to providing students with a high-quality, state-of-the-art learning environment that meets the demands of a growing population, such as South Nowra and Worrigee.”

Member for South Coast Liza Butler said:

“I’m thrilled the artist impressions have now been shared with the community to see an indication of how the new primary and public preschool in Worrigee might look.

“The Nowra community continues to grow, and it is vital we continue to invest in these areas so every child can access high-quality public schools close to home.

“Investing in our public schools is essential to ensure all students across NSW can access the best possible education.”

Digital skills boost through Meadowbank TAFE Centre of Excellence

More than 50,000 Australians each year will gain the benefits of industry-led digital training with a new TAFE Centre of Excellence opening at the Institute of Applied Technology – Digital at TAFE NSW Meadowbank.

In a joint initiative, the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are investing $11 million into the Centre to strengthen Australia’s digital and technology capability, providing practical digital skills training to students shaped by industry needs and helping employers access a pipeline of digitally skilled workers.

Building on the success of TAFE NSW’s Institute of Applied Technology – Digital pilot, the Centre will:

upskill and reskill students and workers in cybersecurity, AI, big data, cloud computing, and software;
expand the skills pipeline by supporting priority cohorts including women, culturally and linguistically diverse learners and First Nations students;
offer flexible delivery including on-site and online training to support regional and remote cohorts across the state and the country;
work with industry, universities and small and medium-sized businesses to deliver applied research and practical solutions to real world digital workforce challenges; and
deliver microskills, microcredentials, vendor certifications, and accredited qualifications across the digital skills domain.

This investment is part of the Albanese Government’s $325 million in funding to establish a national network of up to 20 TAFE Centres of Excellence under the National Skills Agreement with states and territories.

This builds on the Minns Labor Government’s record $3.4 billion investment in TAFE and skills, ensuring the state’s training system continues to deliver modern, industry-aligned training in critical skills areas.

More information on TAFE Centres of Excellence is available on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website.

Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:

“TAFE Centres of Excellence are designed to ensure Australians can get the skills they need for good secure work into the future.

“Australia’s vocational education and training system must remain agile and keep pace with technological change and evolving job roles – work that our Government is doing with industry, training providers and others in the sector.

“By working closely with the Minns Government in backing this project, our new TAFE Centre of Excellence here at Meadowbank will strengthen Australia’s digital capability and boost pathways into skilled digital jobs.”

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan:

“This investment reinforces the role of TAFE NSW as a leader in delivering innovative, industry-focused training, in high-demand skills areas.

“The Institute of Applied Technology Digital – National Centre of Excellence builds on a proven skills delivery model, providing opportunities for students and workers to gain the digital skills that work for communities and industries.

“By working closely with industry and university partners, we are ensuring training keeps pace with technological change delivering job-ready graduates.”

Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale:

“It’s an exciting day for our local community. Playing host to this new, national TAFE Centre of Excellence will supercharge the work already being done by TAFE NSW Meadowbank to ensure students here and across the state get the skills they need for the future.

“Over the coming years and decades the global demand for technology skills will skyrocket – the Albanese Labor Government is ensuring that students can remain ahead of the pack by benefitting from the best of digital and AI skills training, right here in our community.”

Intercity Mariyung train enters service on South Coast Line

The first passenger service of the new intercity Mariyung train on the South Coast Line will depart Kiama Station at 7:56am today, bound for Central Station.

The introduction of the Mariyung in the Illawarra will be followed later in the year by a service uplift that will deliver a train every 15 minutes in the peak between Wollongong and Sydney – up from the current three an hour in the peak – as part of the new 2026 Sydney Trains timetable.

The inaugural journey on Tuesday will mark the beginning of the final phase of the rollout of the Mariyung fleet which entered service on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line in December 2024 and the Blue Mountains Line in October last year.

Mariyung trains offer more spacious two-by-two seating, a quieter journey with modern air-conditioning, spaces for luggage, prams, bicycles and wheelchairs, enhanced safety and improved accessibility.

Seating includes tray tables, arm rests, high seat backs and charging ports for mobile devices. On-board digital screens are easier to read, and CCTV throughout the new trains will enhance the safety and security while helping deter anti-social activity.

The Mariyung trains are the first new intercity fleet in almost 20 years and have an expected service life of 35 years. They will gradually replace the Oscar trains that entered service in 2006.

Following 12 months of testing and enabling track and station works, the South Coast Line is getting a phased rollout of the Mariyung fleet, starting with seven new train sets this month, increasing to 16 trains by 2027.

The first phase will involve 4-car and 6-car sets, the second phase will see 8-car sets later this year, followed by 10-car configurations in 2027.

The new train timetable, to be introduced later in the year, will add a fourth service an hour in peak. There will be a service every 30 minutes outside the AM and PM peaks.

As part of the new timetable changes, South Coast Line services will operate to and from Central and will no longer run on the Eastern Suburbs railway to Bondi Junction.

South Coast passengers wanting to access T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line stations from Town Hall to Bondi Junction will be able to interchange at Hurstville, Sydenham, Redfern or Central or change to Metro at Sydenham.

Under the new timetable to be introduced later this year, South Coast Line trains will no longer stop at Wolli Creek Station – affecting about 2% of current passengers. They will need to change at Hurstville or Central to access services to the Domestic and International Airport stations. Trains will continue to stop at Wolli Creek until the new timetable is introduced.

The former Liberal-National government botched the introduction of the Mariyung fleet, spending $1.7 billion more than they estimated in 2014, according to the NSW Auditor-General, and failing to get them on the tracks while they were in office – despite promising they would be in service in 2019.

This included the need to widen tunnels and extend platforms.

When operated in their longer format during the peak, Mariyungs will be difficult to turn back at Bondi Junction.

Today’s first passenger service will stop at the following stations along the South Coast Line: Bombo, Minnamurra, Shellharbour Junction, Oak Flats, Albion Park, Dapto, Unanderra, Coniston, Wollongong, North Wollongong, Thirroul, Helensburgh, Sutherland, Hurstville, Wolli Creek and Redfern on its way to Central Station.

The introduction of the modern Mariyungs will improve reliability for passengers, part of a $458 million push by the Minns Labor Government to bring rail reliability up to scratch.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“This is a very exciting day for commuters in the Illawarra as these brand-new trains begin to enter service, bringing a new level of comfort, safety and convenience to a region where people often spend long hours on the train as part of their commute.

“The introduction of the Mariyungs will allow us to increase services from Wollongong to every 15 minutes in the peak and every 30 minutes in the off peak and weekends later this year.

“The people of the Illawarra deserve our best trains and more services and that’s what they’re getting.”

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“South Coast residents have been very much looking forward to the new Mariyung going into service.

“We have thousands of people who commute to Sydney regularly and they will now be able to relax and enjoy the scenic trip in extra comfort.

“The added features such as the tray tables and USB charging ports will be a welcome addition to those commuters who work in Sydney.”

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:

“The new Mariyung intercity trains will bring improved comfort and accessibility to travellers between Kiama and Central.

“The 136-year-old South Coast Line is one of most beautiful but challenging rail corridors in NSW due to the terrain, so the project team has made complex infrastructure upgrades to get these new trains operating.

“The Mariyung project has helped to create around 1600 jobs through enabling works and the construction of the maintenance facility at Kangy Angy.

“Passengers can now enjoy the scenery during a very smooth and safe journey, which will particularly enhance the increasingly popular weekday working commute to Sydney’s CBD.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“This is an exciting day for passengers on the South Coast Line with a new Mariyung train taking its maiden journey on the South Coast Line.

“For years Wollongong commuters have wanted more frequent services on the South Coast Line and the new Mariyung trains mean the Minns Labor Government can make it happen.”

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

“Residents in Shellharbour deserve a public transport system that is modern, comfortable and accessible, and the Mariyung fleet will deliver exactly that for communities along the South Coast.

“These new intercity trains will provide a major improvement for local commuters, with more spacious seating, better accessibility, modern technology and enhanced safety features.”

Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“It’s great to see the South Coast Line get access to the modern Mariyung Fleet which ensure our local commuters will get to enjoy features like charging ports, luggage and bike storage.

“This investment is long needed crucial part of delivering a modern passenger focused service for our growing region.”

Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:

“The Minns Labor government has undertaken major capital investment to make the new Mariyung train fit for purpose for all commuters along the South Coast Line.

“I thank commuters for their patience whilst the project teams worked to upgrade the rail network, the platforms and rolling stock – including adding a guard’s cabin for additional safety.

“As the daughter of a train driver, I am excited for the much-improved reliability, accessibility and a better commuting experience.”

Chief Executive Sydney Trains Matt Longland:

“I want to thank the thousands of people who have worked on the Mariyung project.

“Our station staff and train crew are looking forward to welcoming our South Coast passengers onto these brand-new intercity trains.”

Minns Labor EV strategy out of battery

The Minns Labor Government’s EV strategy is a step backward for New South Wales and does nothing to safeguard the state against future fuel shocks.

Labor has put forward a carbon copy of the strategy put forward by the Liberal and Nationals when in Government but has walked away from the previous target of 30,000 chargers and has cut overall investment.

Opposition Leader, Kellie Sloane, said the Minns Labor Government has done nothing for the last three years.

“This is yet another example of Labor playing catch-up. Without a long-term plan we can’t safeguard against global shocks meaning families, households and businesses pay the price,” Ms Sloane said.

“This is not a strategy. It is a smokescreen. A classic Minns Labor Government attempt to distract from three years of missed opportunities on EV infrastructure while families are paying through the nose at the bowser.”

“The Liberals and Nationals have put forward a proposal to protect NSW against future shocks by looking at additional fuel storage and domestic fuel production which the Minns Labor Government could back today.”

Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change, James Griffin, said Labor had recycled Liberals and Nationals initiatives such as transitioning the bus fleet and installing chargers at commuter carparks.

“They have taken the Coalition’s world-class framework, committed less funding, and dumped the ambitious targets that would have actually moved the needle for NSW drivers,” Mr Griffin said.

“In 2023, we promised 30,000 chargers by this year. Labor has delivered barely 10 per cent of that figure. This isn’t a strategy; it’s another example of this lazy government being caught out.”

“Labor hasn’t had a new idea on electric vehicles in three years.”

Remembering the Heroes of Bondi Juncton

Today we pause to remember the six innocent lives taken at Westfield Bondi Junction two years since the senseless tragedy.

We continue to remember Jade Young, Dawn Singleton, Ashlee Good, Pikria Darchia, Yixuan Cheng, and Faraz Tahir and extend our love to all those who live with the trauma of that day.

With the pain still raw, today will not be easy for many families, survivors, first responders and those that were at the shopping centre that day. It is important they know New South Wales has not forgotten them.

We welcome the decision by Governor-General Sam Mostyn to recognise Silas Despréaux, Ashlee Good, Damien Jean Guerot, Detective Inspector Amy Scott, Muhammad Taha, Faraz Tahir, Noel McLaughlin and Catherine Ann Molihan.

These eight extraordinary human beings showed us the very best of humanity. Their recognition is deserved and will long be remembered.

There is no right way to mark this day. What matters is that as a community, we continue to support one another through it, that is what Bondi showed us two years ago, and it is what carries us forward.

Visit to Brunei and Malaysia

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will travel to Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 14 to 17 April 2026.

The visit is part of the Government’s efforts to work with regional partners to maintain the two-way flow of energy supplies, fertiliser and other critical goods.

In Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister Albanese will have an audience with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah to discuss energy, food security, and the flow of essential goods between our countries.

Brunei Darussalam supplies 9 per cent of Australia’s diesel imports, and 11 per cent of our fertiliser-grade urea imports. Australia is a key supplier of food and agricultural products to Brunei Darussalam.

In 2023, under the Albanese Government, Australia and Brunei became Comprehensive Partners, committing to work even more closely on energy, climate change, food security, and economic ties.

In Malaysia, Prime Minister Albanese will meet the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, to discuss the supply of fuel and other critical goods between our countries.

Malaysia is Australia’s third-largest source of refined fueland supplies 10 per cent of Australian imports of fertiliser-grade urea. Australia supplies 95 per cent of Malaysia’s imported natural gas.

As Comprehensive Strategic Partners, Australia and Malaysia will continue to work closely to ensure the continued flow of essential supplies including fuel.

Prime Minister Albanese will be joined by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, who will meet with Brunei’s Second Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof and Malaysia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, YB Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan.

Minister Wong will then travel separately for meetings with counterparts in Singapore.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Engaging with critical regional partners such as Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia will help ensure Australia’s energy supply remains secure during times of uncertainty.

“We are taking every step to reinforce relationships and engage with key partners to keep our fuel supply flowing.

“My Government is continuing to take every practical action to shield Australians from the impact of the war in the Middle East.”

Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

“Working with our regional partners matters more than ever because energy security in our region is a shared challenge.

“We’re continuing to engage closely with countries in our region to support the flow of essential goods like petrol, diesel and fertiliser.

“We know that global supply challenges will be with us for some time, which is why we are focused on supporting Australians through this difficult period.”

Appointment of leadership positions in the Australian Defence Force

The Australian Government is pleased to recommend to Her Excellency, the Governor‑General, a number of senior command changes within the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Subject to the Governor‑General’s consideration and approval, these changes will take effect from July 2026.

The Chief of the Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN will be appointed as the Chief of the Defence Force.

Vice Admiral Hammond has had a distinguished career, spanning 40 years, in the Royal Australian Navy serving in frigates, and extensively in and later commanding submarines and the Australian Fleet. Appointed the Chief of Navy in 2022, Vice Admiral Hammond will continue to bring valuable insight to the role of the Chief of the Defence Force – including towards Australia’s acquisition of conventionally‑armed, nuclear‑powered submarines through AUKUS, and the delivery of Navy’s future surface combatant fleet.

The Government extends its deepest gratitude and thanks to the Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN. Admiral Johnston will retire with the change in command in July.

Admiral Johnston has served in the ADF for over 48 years, in both Navy and joint appointments. As the Vice Chief of the Defence Force, he was instrumental to the design of Australia’s future force and the subsequent ADF implementation of the 2024 National Defence Strategy. Admiral Johnston has also provided long-term leadership to ADF operations as the Chief of Joint Operations and as the Chief of Defence Force.

He is the longest serving ADF officer at the three and four-star ranks, and we congratulate him, and his family, for this tremendous achievement.

The Chief of Joint Capabilities, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, will be appointed as the new Chief of Army.

Enlisting as a soldier in the Army Reserves in 1987, Lieutenant General Coyle has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles, including Head Information Warfare, Commander Forces Command, Commander Joint Task Force 633, Commander 6th Brigade, Commander Task Group Afghanistan and Commanding Officer 17th Signal Regiment. Lieutenant General Coyle will be the first woman in our nation’s history to command the Australian Army.

The Government extends its sincere appreciation to the retiring Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC. Lieutenant General Stuart has served with great distinction and leadership across the Army – most notably as the first Chief of Army to begin his career as a soldier. Lieutenant General Stuart has been key to preparing the Army for the changes required to the force following the 2024 National Defence Strategy.

The next Chief of Joint Capabilities will be appointed in due course.

Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN will be appointed on promotion as the Chief of Navy.

Rear Admiral Buckley has served in Oberon and Collins class submarines, including commanding HMAS Collins and commanding the Submarine Force. He was the Head of Nuclear Submarine Capability at the Australian Submarine Agency, before becoming Deputy Chief of Navy in January 2025. This experience places Rear Admiral Buckley in a unique position to lead the Royal Australian Navy and its people over the coming years as it continues its vital contributions to the peace, safety and stability of the Indo‑Pacific region.

These statutory appointments will be presented to the Federal Executive Council.

The Government extends its sincere gratitude to Admiral Johnston and Lieutenant General Stuart, and their families, for their longstanding commitment to the defence of Australia, their service to country and their lasting contribution to the ADF.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“The Australian Defence Force is tireless in its efforts to keep Australians safe – and I am so pleased to announce these new appointments.

“From July we will have the first ever female Chief of Army in the Australian Army’s 125 year history.

“I thank the outgoing Chief of Defence Force and Chief of Army for their service, and wish them well in their retirement.”

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles:

“It is an honour to confirm these senior appointments to lead the Australian Defence Force. I know that in these roles, each of them will continue to make an enormous contribution to the safety and security of Australia, and I look forward to working with them to do so.

“My sincere thanks and gratitude go to Admiral David Johnston who has led the Australian Defence Force for the past two years with enormous impact, implementing some of the most significant and consequential decisions in decades – including Defence’s response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans’ Suicide, driving AUKUS and the transformation of our Navy, and working with international partners to build our defence relationships.

“I would also like to personally thank Lieutenant General Simon Stuart for his contributions to the Australian Army at such a consequential time, and wish him and his family all the best as he retires.”