Government Criticized Over Handling of Military Justice System Review

A report recommending a significant overhaul of Australia’s military justice system surfaced on Tuesday when Greens senator David Shoebridge discovered it among the exhibits of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans’ Suicide. Alongside independent senator Jacqui Lambie, Shoebridge attempted to table the report in the Senate, but the government blocked the move, raising concerns about transparency.

The report, produced by the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF), contains 51 recommendations, including the re-establishment of the IGADF under new legislation, the creation of an independent director of military prosecutions, and expanding whistleblower protections. It also calls for stronger guidance to military commanders to prevent the concealment of justice issues and suggests a statutory overhaul to restore trust among defence personnel.

Lambie, a longtime advocate for military justice reform, condemned the government’s handling of the report, accusing them of perpetuating a cover-up. “You say you want to reduce veterans’ suicide, but you are part of the problem,” Lambie said in the Senate, expressing her frustration with the government’s response.

The report was originally published on the Royal Commission’s website but was later removed after the government claimed it was posted “in error.” Labor frontbencher Malarndirri McCarthy confirmed its removal but acknowledged the report was now public after being tabled in the Senate. This explanation was called into question, with the Royal Commission secretariat later stating that Commonwealth lawyers were informed well in advance of the report’s tendering into evidence.

Shoebridge accused the government of attempting to keep the report hidden, criticizing their “addiction to secrecy.” Opposition Senate leader Simon Birmingham echoed these concerns, demanding answers about the report’s mishandling.

The defence minister’s office offered little clarification, stating that the review is part of a broader effort to consider reforms recommended by the Royal Commission. While the government has committed to implementing many of the Royal Commission’s recommendations, the incident has amplified calls for immediate action to reform the military justice system and improve accountability within the Australian Defence Force.