Committee: Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee
Date referred: 27 November 2025
Submissions close: 27 February 2026
Reporting date: 4 May 2026
On 27 November 2025 the Senate referred the Defence Amendment (Sexual Assault Prevention, Intervention and Response Commission) Bill 2025 to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee for inquiry and report.
Focus of the inquiry
The committee acknowledges the seriousness and sensitivity of an inquiry which is related to sexual assault within the Australian Defence Force, and the significant harm experienced by those affected. The committee is also mindful that this subject has been examined through a number of previous inquiries and reviews.
The purpose of this inquiry is not to re-examine the content of previous inquiries, but to scrutinise the provisions of the Defence Amendment (Sexual Assault Prevention, Intervention and Response Commission) Bill 2025 and consider if any amendments are required to ensure the bill is sound and best supports victim-survivors.
Individual cases or complaints
We understand that people may be seeking guidance or support about their personal circumstances. It is important to note that the committee is not able to provide advice on individual circumstances, nor investigate or seek to resolve individual matters or complaints.
Support services
If you, or a family member or friend, needs mental health support, please reach out to one of the following support services:
- Lifeline Australia provides 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat with an online crisis supporter online or text via mobile on 0477 13 11 14.
- Beyond Blue is a charity working to address issues associated with depression, suicide and anxiety disorders. Contact their 24/7 counselling service via 1300 22 46 36.
- 1800Respect is available for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence on 1800 737 732
- Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling (formerly VVCS) provides free and confidential counselling 24/7 to Navy, Army and Air Force personnel, veterans & their families. Call Open Arms on 1800 011 046.
- Connect with an ex-service organisation in your local area.
- Please dial 000 if it is an emergency.