Prior to 1958, Australian generals (and field marshals) were only appointed in exceptional circumstances.

A general's insignia is St Edward's Crown above a star of the Order of the Bath (or 'pip') above a crossed sword and baton, with the word 'Australia' at the bottom.

[1][Note 1] This along with the * (asterisk) indicates that the officer was subsequently promoted to field marshal.

The following have held the rank of general in the Australian Army: In addition, Sir John Northcott held the honorary rank of general while acting as Governor-General of Australia in 1951 and 1956.

[8] The Australian-born Sir John Hackett also attained the rank of general in the British Army.