Why She Made the List
In 2026, Coyle is scheduled to become the first woman to serve as Chief of Army in Australia’s 125-year history. Her leadership sits at the centre of Australia’s efforts to modernise defence capability and strengthen operational readiness.
Her current portfolio includes the integration of critical capabilities across cyber, space, information operations, logistics, and joint training. This role is pivotal as the Australian Defence Force responds to rising strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.
Coyle has a distinguished record of operational command, including serving as the first woman to lead Australia’s operational headquarters for Middle East deployments as Commander of Joint Task Force 633.
Summary Bio
Lieutenant General Susan Coyle assumed the role of Chief of Joint Capabilities in July 2024. She joined the Army Reserve in 1987 and graduated as an officer from the Australian Defence Force Academy in 1992.
Throughout her career, she has held senior operational command roles, including Commander of Task Group Afghanistan. She has deployed to Timor-Leste, the Solomon Islands, and Afghanistan.
For her leadership on operations, she has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and awarded the Distinguished Service Medal.