A concealed camera was allegedly found in female sailors’ shower facilities aboard the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Leeuwin, prompting a serious investigation by the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Why it matters: The discovery raises grave concerns over privacy and safety for female sailors in the military. It highlights potential systemic issues within the Defence Force.
A concealed camera was reportedly found in a cabin on HMAS Leeuwin in Cairns on October 11, 2026.
Senator Jacqui Lambie brought the allegations to parliament on October 14, after a former navy member alerted her to the incident.
The ship remains docked in Cairns as investigations are conducted, preventing it from sailing.
The incident has been referred to the Joint Military Police Unit, with Defence collaborating with civilian authorities.
Driving the news: The ADF confirmed the presence of a video recording device but has not disclosed its exact location or whether it was used to record footage.
Defence stated it takes the incident seriously, emphasizing that unacceptable behavior will not be tolerated.
Support services are being provided to affected personnel as part of the response to the incident.
Allegations surfaced that footage may have been uploaded online prior to the discovery of the camera.
State of play: The investigation is focused on determining the circumstances surrounding the camera’s placement and whether similar devices exist on other vessels.
Defence officials have not confirmed if any recordings were made or distributed online.
Senator Lambie has called for checks on other naval vessels to prevent similar incidents.
She raised concerns about the potential for widespread unauthorized recordings of female sailors.
The big picture: This incident reflects broader issues of safety and respect for privacy within military environments, particularly for women.
Greens leader David Shoebridge expressed concerns over the treatment of women in Defence spaces, urging for stronger protections.
Former service members have voiced worries about the culture within the Defence Force, highlighting the need for accountability.
Calls for transparency and reform are growing as the investigation continues, with many questioning the adequacy of current safeguards.
What they're saying: Senator Lambie has been vocal about the implications of this discovery, demanding answers from Defence leadership.
"How many of our female sailors have unknowingly been recorded in their most private moments?" Lambie asked, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
She also questioned the effectiveness of Defence's response, stating, "Your people had a gutful, and if there was abuse going on, they're now coming to me. Enough is enough."
A former servicewoman criticized the restrictions placed on personnel, questioning why silence was necessary if standards were being upheld.
By the numbers: The investigation involves multiple agencies and could have consequences for military protocols.
HMAS Leeuwin has been docked since October 11, 2026, as investigators work to gather evidence.
Reports suggest that the device was found in a female-only cabin, raising additional concerns about privacy.
Defence has not yet confirmed how many personnel are affected or the extent of any recordings.
What's next: The ADF is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, with updates expected as findings emerge.
Defence is prioritizing the welfare of affected individuals and providing necessary support during the investigation.
Senator Lambie has called for a comprehensive review of security measures across all naval vessels.
As the investigation progresses, pressure is mounting for Defence to implement stronger safeguards against such violations in the future.