Lieutenant General Rick Burr was farewelled as Chief of Army and Lieutenant General Simon Stuart was welcomed as his successor during a change of command parade today in Canberra.
Lieutenant General Burr said it was his honour to have served his nation for forty years.
"My lasting memory will be of the incredible soldiers and officers of our Army," Lieutenant General Burr said.
"Our people are our strength, delivering incredible outcomes for our nation every day. I thank them for their service, courage, commitment, and sacrifice.
"I also want to recognise the people who have enabled and supported the Army during my career, in particular our Navy, Air Force and Public Service colleagues, the Australian public, and our Allies and partners. We are stronger together," Lieutenant General Burr said.
The incoming Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Stuart, said Army was regenerating its readiness while undergoing a significant program of modernisation.
"I am most fortunate to assume command from Lieutenant General Rick Burr, who has led an enormous transformation within our Army," Lieutenant General Stuart said.
"General Burr's commitment to developing our people and our individual and collective cultural and ethical fitness through Good Soldiering is a hallmark of his stewardship of our Army.
"As the 41st officer privileged to lead our Army - a fighting and operational force, a national institution and profession - I am committed every day to building on General Burr's rich legacy," Lieutenant General Stuart said.
As part of today's parade, Lieutenant General Burr formally handed over the Australian Army Banner to Lieutenant General Stuart.
This week Warrant Officer Class One Grant McFarlane also completes his tenure as Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army - the position of Army's most senior soldier.
Warrant Officer McFarlane formally passed the pace stick to incoming Regimental Sergeant Major - Army, Warrant Officer Class One Kim Felmingham at today's parade.
Lieutenant General Stuart assumes command of the Australian Army on 3 July 2022.
