Thousands of Women File Class Action Over Sexual Abuse in Australian Military

Female members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have launched a landmark class-action lawsuit alleging systemic sexual violence, harassment, and discrimination spanning from 2003 to 2025. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Court in Sydney and handled by Brisbane law firm JGA Saddler, claims that the Australian Army, Navy, and Air Force have failed to prevent or address widespread abuse and retaliation against those who report it. Thousands of women who served during this period are expected to join the case, which is being pursued on an opt-out basis. Plaintiffs include women who describe brutal assaults and harassment, with some facing retaliation such as exclusion and abusive treatment after filing complaints. The Department of Defence has acknowledged the allegations and stated it is prioritizing implementation of sexual misconduct prevention strategies. The case is viewed as potentially precedent-setting, highlighting the severe safety threats female service members face within their own workplaces rather than on the battlefield.