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Defence is now developing a response to recent report findings hand down by an Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force inquiry investigating the fatal crash of a MRH-90 Taipan helicopter in 2023.
The IGADF has reportedly now handed down the finalised findings and recommendations on July 31 this year, according to a recent statement from Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN.
The Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan helicopter, callsign Bushman 83, catastrophically crashed into the water near Lindeman Island while conducting night-time training during Exercise Talisman Sabre on July 28, 2023.
The crash resulted in the deaths of all those onboard including Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph Laycock CSM, and Corporal Alexander Naggs.
In October 2023, the IGADF appointed an inquiry, led by former Justice the Honourable Margaret McMurdo AC and supported by senior Reserve Air Force officer Air Vice-Marshal Geoff Harland AM CSC DSM, to examine the circumstances and causes of their deaths and determine whether any actions or omissions by ADF personnel or others, compliance or non-compliance with policies and procedures, or other matters contributed to them.
“I have recently received from the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force their inquiry report into the crash of an MRH-90 helicopter in waters near Lindeman Island on the 28th of July 2023… The report is a substantial and detailed body of work. It spans more than 900 pages. Defence is carefully considering these findings and recommendations and will develop a comprehensive response,” according to Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Hammond.
“Our actions will be informed by evidence, they'll be focused on lasting improvement and they will be responsive to the IGADF’s findings.
“To support this work, I have directed the establishment of an oversight body as an assurance mechanism for the report’s findings and to monitor responses across the multiple inquiries and investigations into this accident.
“This continues to be a difficult time for our ADF community. Our thoughts remain with the families, loved ones and colleagues of Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph ‘Phillip’ Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs. The loss of these soldiers continues to be felt across Defence.
“Our thoughts are also with the members of our community, including those connected to the tragic accident.
“My priority is supporting those affected and ensuring that no further harm is caused as Defence works through this report. This is a moment for us to come together as a community and to be there to support each other.
“The ADF Senior Leadership Team and I are committed to meeting this moment. Defence will learn from this, we will act on the recommendations and we will be there for our people and our community to lean on.
“Thank you for your continued support to our Australian Defence Force. Our will and ability to fight and defend our country is derived from your strengths and your support at home.”
Support services remain available to Defence personnel, families and those affected by the accident: https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/crisis-support/helplines.
The following support services are available at Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) - 1800 628 036, Defence Member and Family Support - 1800 624 608, Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling - 1800 011 046 and Lifeline - 13 11 14.
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