Person of Interest Identified in HMAS Leeuwin Hidden Camera Scandal
Chief of Navy addresses 'despicable betrayal of trust' as investigation into recording device found in female shower block continues.
An Australian Defence Force member has been identified as a person of interest following the discovery of a secret recording device in a female shower block on a Royal Australian Navy ship. Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Matt Buckley addressed naval officers about the 'despicable betrayal of trust' on Thursday afternoon as investigations continue.
A hidden camera was found aboard the HMAS Leeuwin on Sunday while the ship was docked in Cairns, Queensland. Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie revealed the incident to the federal Senate on Wednesday after receiving an email from a former Navy member.
The ship remains in Cairns to enable a 'rapid and rigorous investigation by the Joint Military Policing Unit' and to provide support to crew. The Department of Defence confirmed on Thursday that an ADF member has been identified as a person of interest and is assisting the Joint Military Police Unit with its enquiries.
"Navy's focus and priority is providing support to those who are impacted by this incident," a spokesperson told the Daily Mail. It is understood the matter has not yet been referred to Queensland Police.
In a video statement, Vice Admiral Buckley described the matter as 'the most serious matter' and assured that "All potentially impacted personnel are receiving our strongest support." The Warrant Officer of the Navy is in Cairns to support the ship's company. He also announced that a 100 percent audit of all bathrooms across the fleet will be conducted, amid fears of more hidden cameras.
"This act is the most despicable betrayal of trust and is fundamentally misaligned with our values," Vice Admiral Buckley added. "Our Navy is one where highly professional war fighters must rely day in day out on their shipmates. Anything that undermines the trust and respect we need for one another will not be tolerated."
He vowed that any perpetrator will be held accountable, stating, "You have my assurance and commitment that we will tackle this act of sexual violence with all of our energy." He further emphasized that "eradicating sexual violence in our workplace is fundamental to the fighting efficiency of our Navy" and invited all personnel to make it their priority.