The Royal Australian Navy has charged four of its members following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour in 2011.
The alleged incident was brought to the attention of the Chief of Navy after he had encouraged personnel to come forward and report any instances of inappropriate behaviour following reporting on incidents aboard HMAS Ballarat.
The allegations were referred for investigation to the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS).
ADFIS referred their brief of evidence on the allegations to the independent Director of Military Prosecutions (DMP), who determined that there was a case to answer and that individuals be charged. These charges will be heard by a General Court Martial later in the year. In addition to the charges, three of those charged have been suspended from duty and suspension is being considered for the fourth charged member.
Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Ray Griggs AO, CSC, RAN stated “All of Navy has worked to make people accountable for their behaviour. There is now no doubt that all personnel are aware that Navy has no tolerance for unacceptable behaviour.”
Vice Admiral Griggs said “I am committed to transparency on matters of this nature where it does not prejudice either the investigation, disciplinary or administrative processes.” The incident reported in this release was previously referred to in Defence Media Release dated 11 June 2014 – Update to Investigation into Allegations of Inappropriate Behaviour.
Defence will continue to provide updates on the progress of these matters, when it is appropriate to do so.
Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
