Response to ABC AM reporting of Defence investigation into inappropriate comments on Facebook

Defence has conducted investigations into the Facebook page that caused offence to members of the Muslim community.

As soon as the Chief of Army was made aware of the Facebook page, he immediately initiated an investigation.

To date, as a result of the investigation, Defence has taken action against 15 ADF members.

Based on the evidence gathered, of the 15 members, two have been charged under the Defence Force Discipline Act and received formal reprimands as a result of this disciplinary action.

Thirteen members were the subject of administrative action and have been formally counselled in relation to this matter.

Disciplinary action is pending against one other member.

Targeting of any person on the basis of their gender, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation is repugnant and contrary to Defence’s values as well as those held by the wider community.

The overwhelming majority of Defence personnel are professional and hard-working people who act in accordance with the values and standards of behaviour expected from our people in uniform.