Chaplain Kamala Sharma-Wing made history in early 2025 when she became the ADF’s first SERCAT-7 (Service Category 7) Hindu Chaplain. 

Her appointment marked a milestone for Navy and reflected a workforce that continues to grow in diversity and inclusion – where people of all backgrounds can contribute their full selves and feel they belong. 

For Chaplain Sharma-Wing, the role is an opportunity to focus deeply on supporting what matters most: strengthening the resilience, cohesion and readiness of the people she serves.

Based in HMAS Harman, she supports members from every background, belief and profession. 

Her work includes spiritual guidance, pastoral care, crisis support, ethical conversations and regular informal workplace check-ins. 

Drawing on her studies in counselling, Hindu traditions, yoga and mindfulness, she provides practical tools that help members regulate stress and stay focused under pressure. These skills directly underpin the resilient warfighting teams the ADF relies on.

Chaplain Sharma-Wing’s Navy journey began more than 30 years ago. After migrating from Nepal to Australia as a teenager, she completed her schooling while learning a new language and culture. 

“I wasn’t the star pupil. I had to repeat Year 12, scraping by on tenacity rather than brilliance,” Chaplain Sharma-Wing said. 

“It taught me that you don’t need everything figured out. You just need to be genuine and diligent, and this welcoming country, Australia, gives you the opportunity to grow, belong and build a meaningful future.” 

She enlisted in 1995 as a writer – now known as a maritime personnel operator – and later commissioned as a maritime logistics officer, serving in ships and bases across Australia for more than two decades. Her lived experience as a migrant, sailor, officer and now chaplain helps her connect with people from all walks of life. 

'Believe in your aspirations, work hard and allow those who recognise your strengths to support your development.'

Chaplain Sharma-Wing’s path towards chaplaincy began in 2016 during a leadership program, when the visiting director-general chaplaincy recognised her empathy and strong cross-cultural understanding. Defence had no Hindu chaplains at the time. 

“I asked whether there were Hindu chaplains and he said there can be now,” she said.

Supported by Navy, Chaplain Sharma-Wing spent the next two years reflecting on whether this was the right path. A 2019 placement in an aged-care memory-support unit became a defining moment, giving her a clear sense of purpose. 

She went on to complete a Master of Counselling, undertake rigorous training as a Pandita (Hindu Priestess), gain 500 hours of yoga teacher accreditation, complete specialised Hindu studies and carry out multiple pastoral placements. In November 2024, she was ordained as a Hindu Priestess – a rare achievement globally.

When Chaplain Sharma-Wing stepped into her chaplaincy role in January 2025, colleagues told her that she had made history. 

The moment reflected a personal milestone and a signal of Defence’s focus on people-centred behaviours that strengthen capability and readiness. 

Chaplain Sharma-Wing’s days blend structured programs with meaningful moments of connection. Mornings may begin with yoga or breathwork sessions on Harman’s lawns, helping teams build clarity and composure. 

The rest of the day can involve one-on-one pastoral walks, wellbeing workshops, crisis support, workplace engagements or multi-faith observances. 

“My job isn’t to preach Hindu faith, it’s to help people find strength, meaning and purpose in ways that resonate with them,” Chaplain Sharma-Wing said. 

Chaplain Sharma-Wing hopes to see multi-faith representation continue to expand across Defence. She encourages people from diverse backgrounds and professions to explore what this means to them and how they can contribute. 

“The ADF offers countless opportunities. When possibilities arise, take them. Believe in your aspirations, work hard and allow those who recognise your strengths to support your development – and do the same for others in return,” she said.