Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Lambie for raising this very important issue. Before coming to the specifics of this question and to the letter I provided in response to this issue, can I just say to all in this chamber that it is well known that this inquiry is underway. It is an extensive and a very complex inquiry, involving incredibly serious subject matters, and many witnesses and lines of inquiry have occurred. In the course of this inquiry I did table the Inspector-General of the ADF's annual report, a few months ago, which did make very clear the serious nature of the inquiries under review by him.

The Chief of Defence Force has advised me that the inquiry report will be handed to him in coming months. He will then consider its findings and, with my close oversight, will determine the actions required in consultation with the IGADF. Where there are serious rumours and allegations raised about the conduct of our ADF members, Australians would rightly expect that they are thoroughly examined according to the rigorous and well-established processes that are in place. Australians would also expect all ADF members to be treated with the utmost fairness throughout these processes and also, of course, their family members.

In relation to the specific issue that Senator Lambie has raised with me, I can confirm that legal support will be provided, and I'm currently discussing with the Chief of Defence Force and also the Attorney-General how that will occur. But, at all times during the conduct of the inquiry and through its conclusion to the next phases, a range of legal, psychological, medical, pastoral and social work support services will continue to be made available to inquiry witnesses and other individuals impacted.