Australia’s first cyber security chief has been recalled to Defence over a “workplace matter”.

Air Marshal Darren Goldie will no longer act as the National Cyber Security Coordinator after being summoned to Defence to deal with a workplace matter related to his time in the department.

Air Marshal Goldie is now on leave, the department said.

“While the matter is under consideration it would be inappropriate to comment further,” Defence said in a statement.

“The welfare of our people remains our priority and it is requested that Air Marshal Goldie’s privacy is respected at this time.”

The Department of Home Affairs has been informed and Deputy Secretary of Cyber and Infrastructure Security Hamish Hansford will act as National Cyber Security Coordinator in the meantime.

Air Marshal Goldie took up the newly created position in July where he has led the co-ordination of national security policy, government preparedness and response to major incidents including recent data breaches at shipping company DP World and law firm HWL Ebsworth.

He joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1993 before moving to other key roles, including a stint at the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet where he provided strategic foreign policy advice.

– AAP