Source : Perth Now news
Veterans and defence force personnel are being urged to come forward with their experiences of military sexual violence, as an inquiry prepares to hold public hearings.
Former senator and advocate for gender equality Natasha Stott Despoja has been appointed deputy commissioner of the independent Defence and Veteran Service Commission and will lead the probe.
Ms Stott Despoja encouraged people to come forward and share their experiences during the 12-month inquiry.
“Even though my specialty might be more on the gendered violence front, this is really important to me that men feel comfortable to come forward as well,” Ms Stott Despoja said, citing a 60 per cent under reporting figure from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
“People who have had traumatic experiences and have often been re-traumatised or felt betrayed by the system, particularly the military justice system … I understand their scepticism and their fear, but I’m hoping we’re going to provide an environment that is sensitive, respectful, and if need be, confidential.”
Men were more likely to experience violence from other men, but through initiation or hazing activities, while women were more likely to face violence from peers or their superiors.
“There’s a reason why many personnel wait until they’ve left the forces in order to talk about what’s happened to them, or intend to seek justice,” Ms Stott Despoja said.
“If there’s some small way that I can be involved in creating a workplace that is more ethical and respectful, then I’m very grateful.”
The inquiry was recommended by the royal commission after it found sexual violence “systemic” in the ADF.
The new probe will begin later in 2026, but public hearings aren’t expected to take place until 2027 as the commission awaits submissions to inform key issues including how the hearings are held and where they should take place.
“In terms of being a future-focused commission … our job is to come up with solutions that will actually make a difference,” Ms Stott-Despoja said.
The federal government has waived non-disclosure agreements for victim-survivors, after the gag orders stopped some people from engaging in the royal commission.
It followed a campaign by survivors, who were told by the government that Defence no longer issued NDAs arising from sexual harassment and sexual violence matters.
Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh said the standalone inquiry would improve protections for victim-survivors of military sexual violence and ensure perpetrators were held to account.
“Those who wear our uniform might expect to face threats to their safety on the battlefield, but never from those whom they serve alongside,” he said.
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