Olympian to chair Australia Day Council

Danielle Roche, who won gold with the women's hockey team at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, has been named the new chair of the National Australia Day Council.

Danielle Roche has been named the new chair of the National Australia Day Council. (AAP) Source: AAP

Olympic gold medallist Danielle Roche will lead the National Australia Day Council for the next three years.

The former hockey star, who lost her bid for the Australian Olympic Committee presidency in May, replaces Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith after he decided not to seek re-appointment.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull thanked Mr Roberts-Smith for his leadership and tireless work to inspire a greater sense of national pride and spirit.