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Opinion: Dear Minister for Defence, the Honourable Richard Marles MP, and shadow defence minister Angus Taylor MP.
I am writing to express deep concern regarding the ongoing treatment of our SAS soldiers in relation to the decade-long investigations that have cost Australian taxpayers more than $280 million and produced no criminal convictions.
These men served Australia with distinction, courage and sacrifice. They put their lives on the line in the nation’s service, and many Australians – including myself – believe they have been unfairly dragged through an unnecessarily prolonged and politically motivated process.
What began as an attempt to appear “politically correct” 10 years ago has led to significant personal, financial and psychological harm for soldiers who were simply doing their jobs in the most dangerous and complex environments imaginable.
Despite this, many soldiers were forced into “show cause” processes or removed from their roles through administrative action.
These actions have had a devastating impact not only on individuals and families, but on the capability and strength of the Australian Defence Force itself.
This issue is larger than politics. It is a matter of national security.
At a time when geopolitical tensions are rising and it is not a question of if – but when – Australian troops will again be required to deploy into a theatre of war, we have severely diminished our own military capacity.
Highly trained, experienced soldiers – the very people we rely on to build, mentor and lead the next generation – have been pushed out not because of proven wrongdoing, but because of a politically motivated process designed a decade ago to appear “woke” and publicly palatable.
The result is that we have lost irreplaceable expertise, operational knowledge and leadership capability.
We have undermined morale. And we have created an environment where those who risk their lives for Australia are left to feel abandoned rather than respected.
Australians expect better. These soldiers deserve better.
This damage is not hypothetical. I have personally spoken with several soldiers and heard firsthand the profound impact these events have had on their lives.
One story in particular moved me to the core.
A father – working in Dubai at the time – lost his son in Afghanistan. His son was killed in action serving Australia. This father and mother were present in Dubai when their son’s casket passed through on its journey home. As you know, the ramp ceremony is the final act of respect soldiers give to the fallen.
Instead of returning home immediately, these grieving parents made an extraordinary choice. They stayed in Dubai for the remainder of the Afghan conflict, ensuring they were present on the tarmac for more than 30 other Australian soldiers whose bodies passed through.
They stood there – every time – so they could later write to each of those families and tell them: “An Australian was there. Your child was honoured.”
Just let that sink in.
This is the calibre of people we are talking about. This is the community of families we have failed. And this is why the current situation is unacceptable.
Supporting these soldiers is not only morally necessary – it is what the vast majority of Australians expect.
They risked everything for this nation. The least we can do is ensure they are treated with fairness, respect and integrity.
After such an extraordinary expenditure of public money with no convictions, it is time for the Australian government and Defence leadership to acknowledge the impact this process has had on our servicemen and their families.
These soldiers deserve respect, not suspicion; gratitude, not institutional abandonment.
I urge you to take meaningful action, including:
- A formal apology to those affected and their families.
- A full accounting of how $280 million was spent, why the process continued for so long, and who will be held responsible for this waste.
- A clear commitment that similar politically driven investigations will not be allowed to undermine Defence personnel in the future.
- Restoration of honour and recognition for the soldiers involved, whose service to the nation remains unquestioned by the vast majority of Australians.
Every Australian, including you and your staff, should be made aware of and watch the documentary Bravery & Betrayal. It was funded by everyday Australians – not corporations, not political groups – and is now being viewed across the country.
With over a million positive reactions on social media, it reflects the broad public support for these soldiers and the frustration many feel about how they were treated.
This documentary makes clear that the Australian public is watching, paying attention and expecting leadership.
Supporting these soldiers is not only the right thing to do morally; it is also politically wise. Many Australians are deeply frustrated by the perception that those who risk everything for this country are abandoned when convenient. Standing up for them would demonstrate strong leadership and genuine respect for the Australian Defence Force.
I respectfully request that you respond outlining what steps your office intends to take to address this matter. Thank you for your attention. I look forward to your reply.
*** Brendan Fredericks addressed the above letter to Minister for Defence Richard Marles and Shadow Defence Minister Angus Taylor. ***
