Women who claim to have faced systemic sexual abuse, harassment, discrimination, and victimization while serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) are now participating in a groundbreaking class action lawsuit against the Commonwealth.
The lawsuit includes four main plaintiffs, whose identities remain confidential due to legal reasons. However, it is open to any woman who experienced sexual violence, harassment, or discrimination while employed by the ADF between November 12, 2003, and May 25, 2025.
The first plaintiff, a former member of the air force, was the sole woman in her training group of eight to twelve men and one of only two women in a facility housing approximately 200 people.
She reports that during her training, her sergeant made remarks such as “women shouldn’t earn as much as men because they’re not as strong” and “women aren’t contributing as much in the air force.”
“The ADF has done very little to protect those who protect us,” one representative commented.
In response, a Defence spokesperson stated that the ADF is in the process of developing a comprehensive strategy to prevent sexual misconduct.
“Defence acknowledges there is work to be done and that is why the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which relate to sexual violence, are being implemented as a priority,” the spokesperson said.
“All Defence personnel have a right to be respected and deserve to have a positive workplace experience in the ADF.
“There is no place for sexual violence or misconduct in Defence.”
Defence Minister Richard Marles was contacted for comment.
