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BOARD OF INQUIRY INTO PTE JAKE KOVCO’S DEATH

The Board of Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Private Jacob (Jake) Kovco started hearings today at Victoria Barracks in Sydney.

The Board will investigate the facts surrounding the death of Private Kovco, including the incident in which he lost his life, relevant instructions and procedures, and adequacy of training and equipment.

The Board will also take into consideration a number of relevant investigations, including the NSW Coroner’s report and Brigadier Elizabeth Cosson’s report into the repatriation of Private Kovco back to Australia.

It is expected that the Board will adjourn after the initial hearing to receive all final evidence from these relevant investigations. The Board will then recommence in mid-July.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has stated that the Board will undertake a thorough investigation and determine the facts concerning Private Kovco’s tragic death. 

“Everything to do with the Inquiry into PTE Kovco’s tragic death will be open and transparent, with the doors being closed only when matters of privacy or security dictate that it cannot be conducted in an open forum,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“The Terms of Reference for the Board were finalised after consultation with Private Kovco’s family to ensure that they are satisfied that the Inquiry will examine all of the issues that are important to them concerning Jake’s death.” 

The Board is headed by Group Captain Warren Cook, a RAAF Specialist Reservist, who is also a retired Magistrate and former Coroner. He will be supported by a civilian member, Jim O’Sullivan, a former Queensland Commissioner for Police, and Colonel Michael Charles, a Reservist with an extensive military background. 

The Inquiry is meeting in Sydney at the Kovco family’s request and Defence continues to work closely with Mrs Shelley Kovco and Private Kovco’s parents in order to provide any assistance they may need.

At the completion of proceedings a public announcement will be made about the outcomes of the Board of Inquiry.

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