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Australia’s marine and naval industries have spoken out in support of the nomination of Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN to become the next chief of the Defence Force.
Following Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Defence Minister Richard Marles’ announcement of VADM Hammond becoming the next chief of the Defence Force, naval industry leaders have expressed their positive thoughts on this appointment.
The announcement also saw the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM as the next chief of Army, the first woman to hold the position.
VADM Hammond has served in the Royal Australian Navy for nearly 40 years and has served as chief of Navy since 2022. He has played a critical role in Australia’s acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines and has a strong background in frigates, submarines and fleet command.
During his service, VADM Hammond has served on Collins Class submarines and was commanding officer of HMAS Farncomb in the Indo-Pacific.
Michael Fitzgerald, president of the Submarine Institute of Australia (SIA), said: “The SIA congratulates Vice Admiral Hammond and Rear Admiral Buckley on their impending appointments and promotions and looks forward to continuing our constructive engagement to support both Defence and Navy by facilitating informed debate on submarine matters.”
He added the SIA’s thanks to the outgoing chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN for his service to Australia’s defence over the past 50 years.
The Australian Naval Institute also welcomed the addition of Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN on his appointment as chief of Navy, replacing VADM Hammond.
“Rear Admiral Buckley has served in Oberon and Collins Class submarines, including commanding HMAS Collins and commanding the Submarine Force,” the company said.
“He was the head of Nuclear Submarine Capability at the Australian Submarine Agency, before becoming deputy chief of Navy in January 2025.”
The new appointments will officially take place in July.
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