HMAS Success Inquiry

HMAS Success Inquiry

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has today directed that a fresh inquiry into a range of matters arising from equity and diversity issues on board HMAS Success be conducted.

"I have taken this decision following legal advice that the initial administrative inquiry is flawed due to bias. The flaws were identified during a review of a Redress of Grievance raised by a sailor involved in the initial inquiry. I am very disappointed that the inquiry was flawed; however it is imperative that serious matters such as this are dealt with thoroughly," said Air Chief Marshal Houston.

"While I regret the need for a fresh inquiry, I am pleased that the flaws in the initial inquiry have been identified by internal review processes. We now have an opportunity to get the inquiry process right. While I remain confident that overall the Military Justice system is working well, this outcome has reinforced my concern that aspects of the system need to improve.

"I intend to appoint a retired senior Judge to undertake the fresh inquiry. His terms of reference will be comprehensive and include a complete review of the circumstances surrounding the range of matters arising from the equity and diversity issues on board HMAS Success. I also propose to offer the Senate Committee the opportunity to be consulted on the terms of reference for the fresh inquiry.

"I have discussed this initiative with the Minister for Defence who shares my disappointment and my determination that we get this fresh inquiry, and the process, right.

"I understand that initiating a fresh inquiry that will require input from all personnel involved will be unexpected, distressing and protracted. I have not taken this decision lightly, but given the circumstances, I have no other option.

"The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, has given his strong support to the fresh inquiry," Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

"Ensuring that my personnel behave appropriately, ashore and at sea, is fundamental to the cultural reform that I am driving as part of the New Generation Navy program. Equally important is my commitment to ensuring that all my personnel have access to a fair, robust and just inquiry system and that they are supported throughout the process," Vice Admiral Russ Crane said.

A further announcement will be made when the framework of the fresh inquiry has been determined and a senior retired Judge, appointed to lead it, has been confirmed.

Defence will not comment further on the details of this matter at this time.

ENDS

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