The Navy has announced the appointment of its first female Admiral, Robyn Walker.

Admiral Walker is the first woman in the Navy to attain the rank of Rear Admiral and to take on the job of Surgeon‑General for the Australian Defence Force.

The Admiral, who joined the Navy in 1991, says she is honoured by the promotion.

"Navy and Defence have provided me with every opportunity to learn and develop as an individual; and if you take the opportunities that are provided and work hard, your efforts will be noticed and rewarded," she said.

"I am looking forward to the challenges that I will face and continuing to make a positive difference in my new role."

Admiral Walker, originally from Brisbane, has been heavily involved in the Navy's health service.

She was in charge of planning Australia's military medical response to the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, says Admiral Walker is a role model for all women in Defence.

"Admiral Walker's achievements as director-general of health for the Navy with broader responsibilities to the ADF in leading a $270 million revamp of the ADF’s health capability, and her previous role in supporting the health of operational Defence personnel in Iraq and East Timor, have been recognised in the decision to promote her," he said.

"Her promotion reflects her outstanding service and dedication to Defence health services, the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Defence Force."