Melbourne-based justice Debra Mortimer will become the Federal Court of Australia's first female chief justice, following the mandatory retirement of her predecessor, Chief Justice James Allsop.
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus announced Justice Mortimer's appointment, which begins on April 7, after consultation with state and territory attorneys-general, bar associations and courts.
"Justice Mortimer is widely recognised for her legal acumen, intellectual capacity and judicial leadership," Mr Dreyfus said.
"The government is grateful to all members of the legal profession who provided nominations and assisted with its consideration of candidates for this very important role."
Justice Mortimer becomes the fifth chief justice to lead the Federal Court.
She replaces Chief Justice Allsop, whose term expires when he turns 70 next month.
Mr Dreyfus paid tribute to the outgoing chief justice, who he described as having served with "great distinction".
Justice Mortimer's appointment follows Mr Dreyfus' appointment of Federal Court justice Jayne Jagot to the High Court, making the highest court in the land female dominated for the first time in its history.
Justice Mortimer was appointed to the Federal Court in Melbourne a decade ago.
She is also a principal fellow at the University of Melbourne law school.
Most recently, she heard the dispute between federal independent MP Monique Ryan and former staffer Sally Rugg.
Justice Mortimer's appointment came just hours before the Federal Court in Sydney held a ceremonial farewell for the chief justice.
