It's a long road from leaving school at the age of 15 to becoming the Chief Justice of the High Court, yet Susan Kiefel will also become the first woman to lead the nation's highest court.
Justice Kiefel is to replace Robert French, who retires in January at the mandatory age of 70.
Ms Kiefel has vowed to work to uphold the importance of the Court as an Australian institution, and to maintain its independence.
She has told the ABC it's a great honour and a greater responsibility.
"I am honoured by the appointment and very conscious of the responsibilities that go with the office of Chief Justice. The work of the High Court affects the nation and its affects people in their daily lives. I will continue to serve this very important institution to the best of my ability and I would like to offer Justice Edelman my congratulations on his appointment."
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull says Ms Kiefel's story is inspirational and she'll bring a wealth of knowledge to the position.
"She has been one of Australia's most outstanding judicial officers and her appointment crowns a great career with even greater judicial service yet to come in this most important role."
Deputy Labor Leader Tanya Plibersek says she is pleased with the new appointment.
She has told the ABC Ms Kiefel is a distinguished Australian who is very well-regarded by the legal profession.
"I think anybody would recognise that Susan Kiefel is appropriately qualified to do the job, more than qualified, and that is my interest. My very best wishes and the best wishes of the Labor party go to her."
The Law Council of Australia says the appointment has been well received, with Council President Stuart Clark saying Ms Kiefel reflects the profession's diversity.
"Having left school at 15 and studied at night while working full time is not the traditional route to the High Court, so she has a different experience. She is of course the first woman to be appointed Chief Justice of Australia and that reflects the diversity of the legal profession."
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