A review has discovered that “widespread low-level sexual harassment” occurs among women in Australia’s premier military academy.
Conducted by Human Rights Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick, the review reported significant improvements over the past decade. However, it emphasized the need for cultural transformations at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) located in Canberra.
This review was initiated following a scandal involving a female cadet. Two male cadets faced allegations of secretly filming her during sexual activity and streaming it online.
Charges have now been filed against these cadets related to the event, prompting concerns regarding the treatment of women within the Australian military framework.
Officials involved in the review interviewed over a quarter of all cadets and staff at the academy.
According to the report, many women asserted that they receive equal and fair treatment. “The predominant view was that for most women, most of the time, ADFA was a good environment,” it stated.
Nevertheless, 74% of female cadets reported experiencing harassment.
“Widespread, low-level sexual harassment exists at ADFA,” Ms. Broderick wrote.
“Women disproportionately endure gender and sex-related harassment alongside general discrimination and harassment,” she added.
The report stated that there had been “isolated incidents of serious sexual misconduct in recent years, including sexual assault.”
Issues stemmed from insufficient supervision in certain areas and ineffective complaint mechanisms.
The review proposed 31 recommendations, such as establishing a mentoring program for cadets, enhancing education on gender relations, and implementing stricter control over cadets’ alcohol use.
Ms. Broderick stressed the necessity for the academy and the broader military to create “a plan for cultural evolution that is more inclusive of women.”
“This fundamentally requires a shift from merely managing and accommodating women to fostering an environment of full inclusion, recognizing women as an essential and vital component of the ADF’s future capabilities,” she stated.
Defence Minister Stephen Smith indicated that the government would “determine the best way forward in formally adopting and implementing the review recommendations.”
