Captain Fiona Eggins was born in Melbourne and raised across Australia and the UK. She joined Navy in 2001, arriving at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) straight out of high school, just as 9/11 was about to change the focus for the ADF.

Her first posting to HMAS Stuart was a trial by fire, learning the basics of life at sea, such as how to get places without getting lost, and navigating the professional and social dynamics of the wardroom, while also learning her core trade. 

Across her career, Captain Eggins has leaned into challenge. She counts her time as weapons electrical engineer officer in HMAS Warramunga, which included an extended Middle East deployment in 2017-18, as a defining milestone.

“It was such an enjoyable posting, growing as a team in the build up to and execution of the deployment,” she said.

“Seeing what we could do together, and how what we did fit into the bigger picture.”

Later, becoming Commanding Officer of HMAS Waterhen allowed her to shift her focus to people, culture and the power of inclusive leadership, which is an enduring part of her service today.

'If I can help make the path easier for those who come next, or be a support in someone else’s journey, then I’ve done something right.'

Captain Eggins describes herself as “neuro-spicy”. Receiving recent diagnoses of autism and ADHD has given her a better understanding of some of the challenges she has faced. 

In turn, this has strengthened her advocacy for neurodivergent and non‑traditional thinkers across Defence.

“I'm a big fan of trying to find an approach that works for someone, rather than trying to make everyone fit into that same round hole,” Captain Eggins said.

What stands out most today is her commitment to lifting others. From early inspiration found in trailblazing women like Air Commodore Julie Hammer, to the peers and juniors she now mentors, she recognises the impact of representation.

“When I first started, I was the only female electrical engineer in my year at ADFA, and much of my career has been in primarily male-dominated workplaces,” Captain Eggins said.

“I’m a firm believer in building everyone up. 

“If I can help make the path easier for those who come next, or be a support in someone else’s journey, then I’ve done something right.”