Australian and United States Army soldiers watch a United States Army M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) fire in Puslatpur, Indonesia during Exercise Super Garuda Shield 2023. *** Local Caption *** At the invitation of Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), Australia is contributing over 125 personnel from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to Exercise Super Garuda Shield 2023 (SGS23). SGS23 is an Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) and United States Indo Pacific Command led bilateral training activity. It is focused on joint operations with international partners in and around East Java in Indonesia from 31 August to 13 September. Held since 2009, the ADF first participated in 2022, and in 2023 is contributing an Australian Army force element including a Troop of M1A1 Abrams tanks from the 1st Armoured Regiment. The contingent also includes an Infantry Platoon from the 10th/27th Battalion, Royal South Australian Regiment, command and control elements, and a range of armoured vehicles, trucks and recovery vehicles.
An independent inquiry into sexual violence within the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is set to commence, following a year of anticipation. The initiative was prompted by the federal government’s commitment to establish the investigation in response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
Minister for Veteran Affairs Matt Keogh, speaking at the National Press Club, acknowledged the magnitude of the issue and emphasized the necessity for comprehensive structural reform within the ADF. “There is no shying away from Defence still not getting this right,” he stated. Keogh highlighted that, despite progress, many individuals—particularly women—continue to face unacceptable behavior within the organization.
The draft terms of reference, which were shared by the minister, reveal that the Defence and Veteran Services Commission (DVSC) will oversee the inquiry. An assistant commissioner will be appointed to lead this critical work. The inquiry aims to address systemic issues and ensure that the ADF creates a safer environment for all personnel.
Keogh’s remarks underscore a growing recognition of the urgent need for change in the ADF. The inquiry is expected to explore various aspects related to sexual violence, including reporting mechanisms and support systems for victims. The minister reiterated, “Lots has been done but people—especially women—are still experiencing this behaviour. This is not acceptable.”
The push for an independent inquiry gained momentum after the Royal Commission highlighted systemic failures within the ADF regarding the handling of sexual violence cases. The commission’s findings prompted a call for immediate action to protect current and future members of the armed forces.
As the inquiry progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its findings and recommendations. The outcomes could lead to significant reforms aimed at improving the culture within the ADF and ensuring accountability for those who engage in inappropriate conduct. The government has indicated a commitment to taking decisive steps based on the inquiry’s results.
This inquiry marks a pivotal moment in the ADF’s efforts to confront and address issues of sexual violence head-on. With the support of the DVSC and the leadership of the appointed assistant commissioner, there is hope for meaningful change and a renewed focus on the well-being of all service members.
