Who is David Johnston, Australias new Defence Chief? [Video]

Presented with an opportunity to reshape the nation’s military leadership, the Albanese government has opted for continuity over change and safety over boldness.

The appointment of David Johnston as chief of the Australian Defence Force comes almost a year after the government released its defence strategic review, billed as the most significant re-examination of the military in 35 years.

That review found the Defence Force was no longer fit for purpose, and needed a fundamental overhaul.

“The strategic risks we face require the implementation of a new approach to planning, force posture, force structure, capability development and acquisition,” the review stated.

“This necessitates a managed, but nevertheless focused, sense of urgency. It is clear that a business-as-usual approach is not appropriate.”

At least on the surface, the strategic review’s call for transformation jars with the appointment of …