To the Editor,
In articles published on the 14th and 15th January, the Northern Territory News has reported a number of factual errors regarding the Australian Army’s treatment of a soldier, Private Nimmo, who was allegedly assaulted at Robertson Barracks in Darwin in October 2012. These factual errors have been reported despite Defence providing accurate information to the newspaper. I would like to correct these errors.
In August 2012, the Australian Army issued Private Nimmo with an administrative notice, which resulted in his pending discharge. The notice was issued three months prior to the alleged assault in October 2012.
Following the alleged assault, Private Nimmo was provided with civilian medical care and treatment and, subsequently, military medical care and welfare support. As with all Defence personnel who are being discharged, Private Nimmo will undergo a medical examination to establish any service-related need for ongoing medical care, which would be available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on receipt of a claim.
Army takes very seriously the welfare of our soldiers and does not tolerate any form of unacceptable behaviour. Northern Territory Police were advised of the alleged assault and undertook an investigation with the full cooperation and assistance of the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS). Questions relating to the findings of the police investigation should be raised with the Northern Territory Police.
Private Nimmo has not been disciplined for speaking to the media without authorisation, and there are no plans to bring disciplinary action against him.
Army provides medical and administrative support to all our soldiers until their discharge takes effect.
Angus Campbell
Major General
Acting Chief of Army
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
