Tracy Smart is now an Air Vice-Marshal after being promoted to the two-star air officer which makes her the most senior lesbian officer to serve openly in the Australian Defence Force.
Air Vice-Marshal Smart AM, who also goes by the informal alias 'warriordoc,' takes on the role of Commander of Joint Health Command, and Surgeon-General of the Australian Defence Force.
In her new role, she will be responsible for the delivery of health services to members of Defence, and the medical readiness of Defence personnel for operations. As Surgeon-General, she will be responsible for providing strategic health advice and technical oversight of operational health services.
When she joined the Australian Defence Force 30 years ago to help her out with the cost of her degree, she never imagined that one day she might be lead for the delivery of health services, and deployable health capability across all of Defence.
"I am passionate about providing high quality health care to the men and women of the ADF - ie helping those who serve our country - and that's really what I focus on when I come to work each day," said Smart.
"I'm very proud of the work of our men and women and I am keen to deliver effective health services for ADF personnel at home and when deployed."
Smart was promoted to Air Commodore – one-star air officer rank – in 2009 just under 7 years ago where she has has been involved in a major revolution in health care delivery services in a time of increasing demand.
Smart is a well respected and formidable commander and leader in delivering operational health capability, but has also takes the time to be a visible role model for the LGBTI workforce and has has led the Defence contingent in Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras three times since 2008.
Smashing the pink glass ceiling in a career path in one of the most high pressure environments in any Australian government is quite a notable feat.
There are very few women who reach the two-star rank and Smart is the only lesbian to do so, however she has always downplayed her gender and sexual orientation when speaking about her career.
"Everyone has a sexual orientation ... mine has no material effect on the decisions I make or how I command," said Smart.
"I think Defence people are far more interested in the type of leader that you, and the environment that you create in your command. If you have that right, then inclusive and respectful behaviour simply become 'business as usual' and expected."
Lead Picture: Air Vice-Marshal Tracy Smart Command Joint Health and Surgeon General of the Australian Defence Force (supplied)
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