The Chief of Navy (CN) is the most senior appointment in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The rank associated with the position is Vice Admiral (3-star). The CN has overall command of the RAN and all uniformed naval personnel, regardless of where they work in Defence.

The CN is the principal naval adviser on strategic affairs and provides advice to the Chief of the Defence Force and the Secretary of the Department of Defence on current capability, military affairs and future capability development. The CN also represents the RAN on various higher Defence committees.

Vice Admiral Matthew Paul Buckley AM CSC RAN

Key appointments

Chief of Navy (July 2026 – present)
Deputy Chief of Navy (2025 –2026)

Biography

Vice Admiral (VADM) Matt Buckley AM CSC RAN assumed the role of Chief of Navy on 7 July 2026 after his appointment of Deputy Chief of Navy from 2025 to 2026.

VADM Buckley was born in Sydney, Australia and spent his school years growing up on the NSW South Coast. He joined the Royal Australian Navy in January 1990 and graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy in December 1992.

VADM Buckley spent the tactical phase of his career serving in Oberon and Collins Class submarines. Key highlights include 2 years on exchange in a Canadian submarine based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and serving in the commissioning crew of HMAS Rankin.

Following completion of the Submarine Command Course 'Perisher' and the tactical phase of the United States Navy Submarine Command Course, VADM Buckley commanded the submarine HMAS Collins. He later served as the Commander of the Australian Submarine Force. VADM Buckley’s sea service was extensively in the Indo-Pacific, fostering a deep interest in the region.

VADM Buckley has served in several senior staff appointments including Director Submarine Capability, Director General Navy Operations, Director General Navy People, and Head of Nuclear Submarine Capability. He is a graduate of the Australian Defence and Strategic Studies Course where he received the Secretary of Defence – Chief of Defence Force prize.

VADM Buckley was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, June 2015 for his contribution to the Submarine Capability. In January 2024, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for exceptional service in senior leadership roles within the Royal Australian Navy.

He was awarded a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Strategy and Policy from the University of New South Wales. He also earned a Master of International Relations from Deakin University.

VADM Buckley maintains a keen interest in global affairs and enjoys casual barbeques with family and friends. He is an enthusiastic participant in a range of ocean and outdoor sports and is the proud Patron of both the Navy and Australian Defence Force 'Surfriders' associations.