![]() ![]() In 2016, the ABC revealed the navy had stood aside the commander of one of its largest ships while it investigated an on-board complaint from a female officer and separate claims that crew from HMAS Success had bashed a man unconscious during a visit to Malaysia. "This is a matter under investigation, and I think we would either be inappropriately commenting or speculating, so until that matter is dealt with by the joint military police unit I think that we're not in a position to comment further," General Campbell said. Questioned about what actions he had taken, defence chief General Angus Campbell said the ADF was reluctant to comment on the matter. "Noting that new information, I referred the allegation to the joint military police unit - that is fresh news and under investigation," Vice Admiral Hammond added, while assuring Senator McKenzie the matter was being handled "very seriously". "I haven't heard it characterised like that, but I have heard it refers to a group of ADF members and unacceptable behaviour - I had it referred to me third-hand, and I'm not sure of the source. "I understand that a separate allegation relating to that had been raised, I was not aware of any context and nor do I seek to interfere with the ongoing officer inquiry - which may or may not have come across this term," Vice Admiral Hammond responded. Senator McKenzie told the committee she had been informed the allegations involved "a group of male officers in a WhatsApp group boasting about female conquests" who called themselves the "three-ringed wranglers". Under questioning from Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie, the navy chief also confirmed he had referred a separate complaint of apparent sexual misconduct involving naval officers to military police. In November, the ABC revealed the captain was also being investigated over an alleged incident that caused "embarrassment" at an international event in front of United States Navy counterparts. Defence and Veterans Legal Service (DAVLS) can be contacted on 1800 33 1800.Open Arms provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families 1800 011 046.The Defence all-hours Support Line is a confidential telephone and online service for ADF members and their families 1800 628 036.What's next? The ADF is struggling to attract new recruits, with the military currently operating nearly 7 per cent under strength despite attempts to reduce the enlistment waiting period.Īllegations of sexually inappropriate behaviour inside the Royal Australian Navy have been referred to military police, with parliament being told the matter involves an "officer-only conquest club".ĭuring a Senate estimates hearing late on Wednesday, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond was quizzed about last year's removal of a commanding officer from a warship over claims of "unacceptable behaviour" and "heavy drinking" while at sea. ![]()
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