Afghan Child Injured during Operation in Afghanistan

Defence is investigating an incident where a five year old Afghan child was bitten by an Australian search dog.

The child was discovered with a minor laceration during a compound clearance in Tarin Kot on 30 March 2012.

The search dog entered the compound after civilians who had vacated the building advised the Special Operations Task Group force element that the compound was clear of all people.

The soldiers began a routine compound clearance and found a child, believed to be about five years old, alone inside the compound with a minor laceration.

An Australian medic provided immediate first aid to the child. No follow up treatment will be required.

Defence deeply regrets any injuries to civilians.

Media contact: Defence Media Operations 02 6127 1999