Chief of the Defence Force - Letter to the Townsville Bulletin

In a series of articles and editorials this week the Townsville Bulletin has effectively conducted a trial by media against Brigadier Shane Caughey for actions dealt with more than a decade ago.

As Defence has already stated, action was taken against the perpetrator and against Brigadier Caughey in relation to this matter. Since this time, Brigadier Caughey has provided distinguished service to the Australian Defence Force.

Brigadier Caughey does not have a voice in this very public conversation given the legal constraints which prevent him from disclosing specific information. As journalists will understand, these constraints are necessary, not the least because of the need to avoid breaches of privacy or potential prejudice to any matters that may be before the current Government inquiry.

These are serious incidents. I acknowledge the devastating consequences they have had on those men who were assaulted as does Brigadier Caughey who was censured for failing to adequately deal with these matters at the time.

D.J. HURLEY, AC, DSC
General
Chief of the Defence Force