Admiral David Johnston AC RAN today handed command of the Australian Defence Force to Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN, concluding a distinguished career as Australia’s longest serving three-and-four-star ADF officer.
Admiral Johnston retires after nearly 50 years of service, having served for almost two decades as a senior officer.
Over the past two years as the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF), Admiral Johnston and his leadership team stewarded the ADF to deliver multiple priorities concurrently and at speed, including:
- developing and delivering faster, more focused and more integrated capability programs
- strengthening Australia’s partnerships through regular exercises, operations and training in the Indo-Pacific
- growing the ADF workforce, including recording the highest annual personnel intake in 15 years and reducing separation rates.
Reflecting on his service, Admiral Johnston said the people he worked with throughout his career had been its highlight.
“Without question, it is the people I have worked with who have made my career worthwhile,” he said.
“It is genuinely inspiring to come to work every day with individuals who are deeply committed to serving their nation and giving their best in often challenging circumstances.
“Every person who puts on a uniform and chooses service is a steward of the ADF, and I have the utmost confidence Admiral Hammond, his leadership team, and every single soldier, sailor and aviator will carry forward the legacy of this proud, historic institution.”
Admiral Hammond acknowledged Admiral Johnston’s significant service and stewardship of the ADF over the last two years.
“There are few ADF officers who can say they have dedicated their lives to serving their country with commitment, distinction and pride since the age of 15,” he said.
“This is exactly what Admiral Johnston has done. Throughout his impressive career he has always had a reputation for clear and considered leadership, incisive insight and perspective, and a genuine care and compassion for his team and their families.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to Admiral Johnston for his service and leadership.”
Admiral Hammond becomes the CDF after a distinguished 40-year career in the Royal Australian Navy serving in frigates, commanding submarines, and leading as Fleet Commander and later the Chief of Navy. He is also the first submariner to lead the ADF.
The CDF change of command ceremony was the last of four ceremonies this week, which also saw Vice Admiral Matt Buckley AM CSC RAN appointed Chief of Navy, Air Marshal Glen Braz AM CSC DSM appointed Chief of Joint Capabilities, and Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM appointed the Chief of Army, succeeding Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC after his distinguished service as Chief of Army.
BIOGRAPHY: Chief of the Defence Force | About | Defence
SPEECH: Recordings of the speeches available here (from 38:19) ADF | Chief of the Defence Force change of command ceremony
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