ADF member a person of interest after video recorder found in HMAS Leeuwin women’s showers

Investigation underway

The device was found aboard HMAS Leeuwin, a naval vessel docked in Cairns. Defence said the matter had been referred to the military police unit.

Device location statements differ

Defence initially said the device was found in the vessel’s cabin and did not specify its location. The statements therefore differ on where it was found.

Navy orders bathroom audit

Buckley said the ship’s program had been changed to allow a rapid investigation. He also said the navy was conducting a 100% audit of bathrooms across the fleet.

Buckley described the incident as an act of sexual violence and a serious betrayal of trust. He said affected personnel were receiving support, including from the warrant officer of the navy, who was in Cairns.

Officials condemn the incident

Defence Minister Richard Marles called the incident reprehensible and invasive, and said he was receiving updates as the investigation continued. He said the priority was supporting affected individuals.

Lambie asked whether recordings had been published online, retained or uploaded without consent. The article provides no answer to those questions.