Australia has announced that a woman will lead its army for the first time in history as part of a broader reshuffle of the country’s defence leadership.

Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, the current Chief of Joint Capabilities, will become Chief of Army in July, replacing Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, according to a government statement.

Her appointment comes as Australia’s military seeks to increase the number of women in its ranks while also addressing allegations of systemic sexual harassment and discrimination within the defence forces.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the move marks the first time a woman will serve as Chief of Army in the Australian Army’s 125-year history.

Defence Minister Richard Marles described the appointment as a “deeply historic moment,” noting that it would inspire both current and future female service members.

Coyle, 55, joined the military in 1987 and has held several senior command positions throughout her career. She will also become the first woman to lead any branch of Australia’s armed forces.

Women currently make up around 21% of the Australian Defence Force and 18.5% of senior leadership roles, with the government aiming to raise overall female participation to 25% by 2030.

Meanwhile, the government also announced a wider leadership reshuffle, including the appointment of Vice Admiral Mark Hammond as head of the Australian Defence Force, succeeding Admiral David Johnston, and Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley as the new head of the navy.