General Rank of the Australian Army
In the hierarchy of the Australian Army, the rank of General (abbreviated as GEN) represents the pinnacle of active service. As a four-star rank, it is the second-highest overall rank in the army, surpassed only by the rank of field marshal. Established in 1917, the rank was created as a direct equivalent to the British military rank of general, ensuring standardization and interoperability between the two forces.
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Key Facts
- Rank Level: Four-star rank (NATO code OF-9 / Non-NATO O-10).
- Status: The highest active rank in the Australian Army.
- Equivalent Ranks: Admiral (Royal Australian Navy) and Air Chief Marshal (Royal Australian Air Force).
- Hierarchy: Positioned above Lieutenant General and below Field Marshal.
- Formation: Established in 1917.
Evolution and Appointment
The application of the rank of general has evolved significantly over the last century. Prior to 1958, the appointment of generals and field marshals occurred only under exceptional circumstances. This changed with the creation of the position now known as the Chief of the Defence Force in 1958.
Since 1966, the rank of general has been formally held by any army officer appointed to the position of Chief of the Defence Force, cementing its role as the primary leadership rank for the service branch.
Insignia and Identification
The insignia for a General is designed to reflect authority and tradition, mirroring British Army officer rank insignia but with a distinct national identifier. The visual components include:
- St Edward's Crown (the Tudor Crown) at the top.
- A star of the Order of the Bath (commonly referred to as a 'pip') in the center.
- A crossed sword and baton below the star.
- The word "Australia" inscribed at the bottom.
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Rank Comparison and Equivalencies
To maintain a balanced command structure across the Australian Defence Force, the rank of general is aligned with equivalent senior roles in the other service branches.
| Service Branch | Equivalent Rank | Rank Level |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Army | General | Four-star |
| Royal Australian Navy (RAN) | Admiral | Four-star |
| Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) | Air Chief Marshal | Four-star |
Notable Appointments and Honorary Ranks
While the rank is typically earned through career progression, there are instances of honorary appointments. For example, Sir John Northcott held the honorary rank of general while serving as the Governor-General of Australia in 1951 and 1956. Additionally, some officers have achieved the rank of general within the British Army, such as the Australian-born Sir John Hackett.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a General and a Field Marshal?
A General is a four-star rank and the highest active rank in the Australian Army. A Field Marshal is the only rank higher than a General, though it is not an active appointment in the same capacity.
How does the Australian General insignia differ from the British version?
The insignia are identical in their symbols—the crown, star, and crossed sword and baton—but the Australian version specifically includes the word "Australia" at the bottom.
Who currently holds the rank of General in the Australian Army?
Since 1966, the rank of general is held by the army officer appointed to the position of Chief of the Defence Force.
What is the NATO rank code for a General?
The NATO rank code for a General is OF-9, while the non-NATO rank code is O-10.
When was the rank of General first formed in Australia?
The rank was formed in 1917 as a direct equivalent to the British military rank of general.