Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN

I have recently received from the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force their inquiry report into the crash of an MRH-90 helicopter in waters near Lindeman Island on the 28th of July 2023.

This continues to be a difficult time for our ADF community.

Our thoughts remain with the families, loved ones and colleagues of Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph ‘Phillip’ Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs.

The loss of these soldiers continues to be felt across Defence.

Our thoughts are also with the members of our community, including those connected to the tragic accident.

The report is a substantial and detailed body of work.

It spans more than 900 pages.

Defence is carefully considering these findings and recommendations and will develop a comprehensive response.

Our actions will be informed by evidence, they'll be focused on lasting improvement and they will be responsive to the IGADF’s findings.

To support this work, I have directed the establishment of an oversight body as an assurance mechanism for the report’s findings and to monitor responses across the multiple inquiries and investigations into this accident. 

My priority is supporting those affected and ensuring that no further harm is caused as Defence works through this report. 

This is a moment for us to come together as a community and to be there to support each other.

The ADF Senior Leadership Team and I are committed to meeting this moment.

Defence will learn from this, we will act on the recommendations and we will be there for our people and our community to lean on.

Thank you for your continued support to our Australian Defence Force.

Our will and ability to fight and defend our country is derived from your strengths and your support at home.

Background for Media

Support services remain available to Defence personnel, families and those affected by the accident: https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/crisis-support/helplines.

For further information, please see: MRH-90 helicopter accident | About | Defence

As you run sensitive stories on ADF personnel, please include the following support lines:

• Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) - 1800 628 036
• Defence Member and Family Support - 1800 624 608
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling - 1800 011 046
• Lifeline - 13 11 14