Call for independent disciplinary body after hidden camera found on HMAS Leeuwin

Naval
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By: Robert Dougherty
Royal Australian Navy survey ship HMAS Leeuwin prepares to depart Cairns, Queensland, ahead of a deployment on a regional hydrographic survey mission in support of the Government of Papua New Guinea. Photo: CPL Dana Millington

Australian Senator Jacqui Lambie has called for the establishment of an independent disciplinary body for the Australian Defence Force, after a hidden camera was found inside a female shower block aboard HMAS Leeuwin.

Australian Senator Jacqui Lambie has called for the establishment of an independent disciplinary body for the Australian Defence Force, after a hidden camera was found inside a female shower block aboard HMAS Leeuwin.

Senator Lambie made the comments on the News24 television program on October 14, after Defence confirmed that the device was found on the Leeuwin-class hydrographic survey vessels operated by the Royal Australian Navy.

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On 11 October, Defence became aware that a video recording device had been located in the cabin of HMAS Leeuwin, while alongside in Cairns, Queensland. The incident was referred to the Joint Military Police Unit and Defence is working with civilian authorities - Defence said.

 
 

“I find it extraordinary that these people have no fear that they think that, especially in the uniform with the disciplinary system we have in there, they can get away with this sort of stuff,” according to Senator Lambie.

“I want an independent body that doesn’t wear a uniform on the outside, so our people feel like they’re being listened to.

“We have a real problem here, and it needs to be checked.”

Defence has also confirmed that the matter is currently under investigation and ship remained alongside to enable the investigation and ensure immediate support was provided to members of the ship’s crew.

“Defence takes this incident extremely seriously and does not tolerate unacceptable behaviour in any form. The welfare of individuals remains Defence’s priority, and support is ongoing,” in a public statement.

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Professional support is available to our people at any time. If you need to speak to someone, reach out to one of the following support lines:

Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response Office (SeMPRO) – 1800 SEMPRO (1800 736 776) (24/7)

Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) – 1800 628 036 (24/7)

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Robert Dougherty

Robert Dougherty

Author

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.
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