Self-styled "Wollongong boy" General David Hurley will become the 38th governor of NSW, replacing the popular and long-serving Marie Bashir on October 2.
The Chief of the Defence Force said he had "enormous shoes to fill" following Governor Bashir's seamless 13-year stint.
"We know the quality of the role she has performed and we'll be working hard to follow in her footsteps. She's really paved the way in this role," Gen Hurley said.
The former combat soldier will leave the Defence Force at the end of June after a stellar 42-year career in the military, including a three-year reign as its chief.
Since being appointed in 2011, Gen Hurley oversaw a tumultuous period in the Australian Defence Force, including the aftermath of the Skype sex scandal and the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.
Gen Hurley said he would live at Government House in Sydney, and joked he'd run a South Sydney Rabbitohs flag up outside.
In his new role, he hopes to fight for gender equality, "youth opportunity" and assist returning soldiers.
He indicated he was a staunch monarchist and would continue to serve the Queen until Australians determined otherwise.
Military men have replaced women in the roles of Governor General and NSW Governor after Sir Peter Cosgrove replaced Quentin Bryce earlier this year.
NSW Premier Mike Baird said Gen Hurley's appointment reflected his "incredible" career.
"It's great to have someone who has led the Australian military in difficult times," Mr Baird said.
"But at the same time, every single hour, he has been about dedicating his life and cause to the people of this country."
Gen Hurley's wife and three children attended the announcement.
Ms Bashir is the second longest-serving and a popular NSW governor, having served since 2001 following a lengthy medical career.
She will step down on October 1.
Sir Arthur Roden Cutler has been the longest-serving NSW Governor, lasting 15 years in the 1960s and 1970s.
The office of governor of NSW is the oldest public office in the country dating from 1786, when Captain Arthur Phillip was issued his commission ahead of travelling to Australia.
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