Australian national security official suddenly goes on leave to urgently deal with a 'workplace matter'

Australia's National Cyber Security Coordinator is currently dealing with a 'workplace matter', a statement from the Department of Defence announced on Wednesday afternoon. 

'Air Marshal Darren Goldie, AM, CSC, has been recalled to Defence to deal with a workplace matter related to his time in Defence,' it said.

'He is currently on leave. While the matter is under consideration it would be inappropriate to comment further. 

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

Cyber Security minister Clare O'Neil said she had been informed of what is happening.

Department of Home Affairs Deputy Secretary of Cyber and Infrastructure Security Hamish Hansford will act as National Cyber Security Coordinator in the interim.

Air Marshal Goldie had recently been in charge of the federal responses to the nationwide Optus shutdown and the DP world cyber attack that closed ports across the country.

He was appointed to his job just four months ago, but before that had an 'extensive 30-year career with the Royal Australian Air Force, joining in 1993', according to the Home Affairs website.

When he took over the cybersecurity role in July, Ms O'Neil said 'a really important piece of the jigsaw puzzle is being put in place'.

At that same press conference, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Air Marshal stood out to him as 'someone who had that proven record of leadership, of being able to coordinate across the security space, in our defence forces'.

Mr Albanese added that he believed Air Marshal Goldie was 'an outstanding choice' and was 'very pleased' with his appointment.