Women in Australia’s defence forces file class action over sexual violence, harassment and discrimination spanning more than two decades

Women in Australia’s defence forces have launched a powerful class action lawsuit against the government, alleging decades of sexual violence, harassment and discrimination within the military ranks.

Also read: Halima Abdulahi Jailed for Tramadol Possession

Filed in the Federal Court in Sydney on Friday, the landmark case represents women who served between November 2003 and May 2025, marking one of the most significant legal challenges to institutional misconduct in Australian military history.

Lawyer Josh Aylward of JGA Saddler, the firm leading the case, said the reality for many women serving their country was grim.

“The threat of war often isn’t the biggest safety fear for female ADF personnel; it is the threat of sexual violence in their workplace,” he said.

He added that the public would be shocked by the extent of brutal assaults and reprisals against women who dared to speak out.

The case, lodged on an opt-out basis, includes all women who served in the period unless they specifically declare they were not affected.

Thousands are expected to participate, reflecting widespread outrage and a long-standing demand for justice.

Australia’s Department of Defence confirmed it was aware of the lawsuit, stating that all personnel “deserve to have a positive workplace experience” and reaffirming that there is “no place for sexual violence or misconduct in Defence.”

One lead applicant described waking up after an on-base party naked and injured, later learning she had left with four servicemen.

Despite filing a complaint, she was allegedly punished — restricted in her movements, denied shared facilities and eventually transferred to another base — while the accused men remained free.

The class action argues that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is vicariously liable for failing to protect women from abuse and for repeatedly neglecting to implement meaningful cultural reforms, despite years of internal reviews.

Also read: Petrol Landing Cost Drops But Prices Stay High

“This legal case is a demand for action, for accountability and for real change,” said Aylward, calling the moment a turning point for women in uniform and a test of the nation’s commitment to equality and safety in its defence institutions.