UPDATE:

STATEMENT FROM CHIEF OF NAVY VICE ADMIRAL MATT BUCKLEY:

“Team Navy. By now, I expect that many of you will be aware of the serious incident regarding a recording device that was found in a bathroom in HMAS Leeuwin.

I consider this a most serious matter, and accordingly, the Ship’s program has been altered to enable a rapid and rigorous investigation by the Joint Military Policing Unit.

My highest priority, as always, is the wellbeing of our people. All potentially impacted personnel are receiving our strongest support.

The Warrant Officer of the Navy is in Cairns right now to support the Ship’s Company.

To provide assurance to all personnel Fleet Commander is undertaking a 100% audit of all of our bathrooms across the Fleet.

This act is the most despicable betrayal of trust and is fundamentally misaligned with our values.

We will not, however, be defined by acts of this nature. Our Navy is one where highly professional warfighters must rely day in day out on their shipmates. Anything that undermines the trust and respect we need for one another will not be tolerated.

In my Commanders Intent, you will note that people is the first of my 4 P’s. That is because our undertaking is fundamentally a human endeavour performed by highly-functioning teams with high degrees of trust in one another. Establishing and preserving this trust is critical.

You have my assurance and commitment that we will tackle this act of sexual violence with all of our energy. Any perpetrator will be held to account. Further, you should all know that eradicating sexual violence in our workplace is fundamental to the fighting efficiency of our Navy. I invite all of you to make this your priority. Thank you.” 

14 OCTOBER

On 11 October 2026, Defence became aware that a video recording device had been located in the cabin of Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Leeuwin, while alongside in Cairns, Queensland.

The incident was referred to the Joint Military Police Unit and Defence is working with civilian authorities. 

Defence takes this incident extremely seriously and does not tolerate unacceptable behaviour in any form. 

The ship remained alongside to enable the investigation and ensure immediate support was provided to members of the ship’s crew. The welfare of individuals remains Defence’s priority, and support is ongoing.

As the matter is currently under investigation and to protect the privacy of the affected individuals, Defence is unable to provide further comment at this time. 

Professional support is available to our people at any time. If you need to speak to someone, reach out to one of the following support lines:

• Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response Office (SeMPRO) – 1800 SEMPRO  (1800 736 776) (24/7)
• Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) – 1800 628 036 (24/7)
• Defence Member and Family Helpline – 1800 624 608 (24/7)
• 1800 IMSICK – 1800 467 425 (24/7)
• Reserve Assistance Program (RAP) – 1300 687 327
• Employee Assistance Program – 1300 687 327 (For APS, ASD, ASA, Reservists and Cadets)
• Defence Chaplaincy Support – 1300 333 362 (24/7)