UPDATE

It is with great sadness Defence can confirm the death of Australian Army soldier Corporal Brendan Hannam during a training exercise at the Mount Bundey Training Area on 5 October 2026.

Corporal Hannam, a soldier from the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, died following a single vehicle rollover accident during training. The death of one of our soldiers is a tragedy and deeply felt by the Army family and across the broader Defence community.

Five other Australian Army soldiers were injured in the accident. Two soldiers remain in hospital in Darwin in a stable condition, while three soldiers are being monitored and supported at the Robertson Barracks Health Centre.

Corporal Hannam served on Operation Highroad in Afghanistan and Operation Kudu in the United Kingdom. He was a respected soldier who was deeply valued by his unit, mates and commanders. His greatest pride was his family, whom he loved unconditionally.

Our highest priority is to support Corporal Hannam's family and all soldiers involved in this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with his partner, children, family, mates and colleagues as they grieve his loss. We request that the privacy of Defence members and their families is respected during this difficult time.

STATEMENT

Defence can confirm an Australian Army soldier has died during a training exercise at the Mount Bundey Training Area on 5 October 2026. 

Five other Australian Army soldiers were injured. 

Next of kin has been notified.

We request that the privacy of Defence members and families is respected at this time.

Defence will provide further updates when possible.

SUPPORT

Support is always available to our people:

Defence Member and Family Support - 1800 624 608 (24/7)

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Employee Assistance Program - 1300 687 327 (For APS, ASD, ASA, Reservists and Cadets)

Defence Chaplaincy Support - 1300 333 362(24/7)