‘No One Came to My Aid’: Military Sexual Assault Victims Tell Senate of Their Experiences

Serving and veteran Australian Defence Force personnel have shared their experiences with sexual harassment and assault, with one anonymous former member describing attempts to force her door open and another serving member detailing a drugging and sexual assault. These testimonies come as the government is considering a new commission to address such issues within the military. The individuals’ submissions highlight a profound sense of betrayal and a lack of support during their ordeals.

• Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel have shared accounts of sexual harassment and assault.
• One former member reported a male colleague attempting to force her door open, with no one coming to her aid.
• A serving Army member claims they were drugged and sexually assaulted as a trainee and are facing medical discharge.
• These stories are being shared as the government considers establishing a new commission to handle military misconduct.
• The anonymous testimonies express feelings of violation and a lack of support within the ADF.