Four Australian servicewomen have initiated a landmark class action lawsuit against the Australian Defence Force, alleging widespread sexual abuse, harassment, and discrimination. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Court, is expected to involve thousands of women who served between 2003 and 2025.
The class action was officially launched on Friday, with law firm JGA Saddler representing the plaintiffs. It operates on an opt-out basis, automatically enrolling all eligible women unless they choose to withdraw. This legal move aims to hold the military accountable for systemic failures in protecting female personnel from sexual violence and misconduct.
The lead applicants, whose identities are protected for legal reasons, have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences. One woman from the air force described being subjected to hostile and sexist comments, inappropriate conversations, and unsolicited pornographic images. Another, from the navy, alleged being forcibly kissed and groped by a colleague while on duty abroad, with incidents including waking up naked and bruised after social events.
Further allegations detail being pinned to a wall and groped, as well as threats of violence for reporting incidents. Survivors commonly felt treated as the problem rather than victims, facing retaliation after speaking out. These stories highlight a pattern of institutional neglect and a culture that perpetuates harm against women in the military.
Contextually, a major report into suicide among Australian veterans last year revealed about 800 reports of sexual assault within the ADF between 2019 and 2024, with an estimated under-reporting rate of 60%. This data underscores the pervasive nature of the issue and the challenges in addressing it effectively within the defence force’s structures.
Lawyers involved, such as Joshua Aylward from JGA Saddler, emphasize that for many female ADF personnel, the threat of sexual violence in their workplace outweighs fears of combat. They note that these women enlisted to serve their country, not to endure daily harassment from colleagues, and the class action seeks to bring long-overdue accountability.
In response, an ADF spokesperson acknowledged that there is “work to be done” and stated that sexual violence has no place in the military. The defence force is developing a comprehensive sexual misconduct prevention strategy and improving education, training, and awareness initiatives, aligning with recommendations from recent inquiries like the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The class action could drive significant reforms in military culture and policies, offering validation and potential compensation for survivors. It may also serve as a deterrent for future misconduct and inspire similar actions globally, highlighting the urgent need for safe and respectful environments in armed forces worldwide.