RSL Victoria Statement on 60 Minutes Story

The allegations of sexual assault in the ADF reported on 60 Minutes last night are sadly not a shock to the veteran community.

These cultural issues were made public by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, where it found that too often abuse, bullying and harassment are not dealt with appropriately, and perpetrators are not held to account.

RSL Victoria calls for a better understanding of the prevalence and effects of military sexual trauma and support victims; prioritising the prevention of sexual misconduct; ensuring perpetrators who are convicted of sexual misconduct are discharged from the military; and improving training to ensure leaders are better equipped to manage sexual misconduct.

We applaud those who bravely told their stories on 60 Minutes.

It further demonstrates the need for Government to address the Final Report of the Royal Commission by implementing all recommendations urgently.

RSL Victoria is here to provide support to serving personnel and veterans that have suffered abuse or injury during service.