An Australian Defence Force (ADF) member has been identified as a person of interest in an investigation after a video recording device was discovered in a women’s shower facility aboard the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Leeuwin, which was docked in Cairns. The Australian Defence Department confirmed the development on Thursday, following initial reports the device had been found earlier in the week.

Vice Admiral Matt Buckley, Chief of Navy, described the incident as an “act of sexual violence” and “the most despicable betrayal of trust.” He said the navy had initiated a comprehensive review of all bathroom facilities across its fleet to prevent further breaches. Buckley stressed the gravity of the situation in a written statement to navy personnel, emphasizing the importance of the well-being of service members and asserting that any perpetrator would be held accountable.

The device was discovered inside the vessel’s bathroom, and the matter was promptly referred to the Joint Military Police Unit for investigation. The identified ADF member is currently assisting police with their enquiries. Defence officials said their priority remained supporting those affected by the incident.

The discovery followed questions raised by Senator Jacqui Lambie, a former ADF member and advocate for defence personnel, who informed the Senate that a hidden camera had been found onboard HMAS Leeuwin. Lambie, who said she had been contacted by a former navy member regarding the incident, asked whether any footage had been published online and raised concerns about the extent of privacy violations potentially experienced by female sailors.

In response, Buckley announced that all potentially impacted personnel were receiving "strongest support," noting that the Warrant Officer of the Navy was present in Cairns to assist the ship’s company. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Richard Marles condemned the act, calling it “reprehensible, invasive and … the most despicable breach of trust,” and reiterated that such behaviour had no place in the ADF.

The incident has prompted a swift response within the navy, with the ship’s program altered to enable a rapid and thorough investigation. Buckley characterized the issue as fundamentally misaligned with the values of the navy and underscored that eradicating sexual violence was essential to maintaining operational effectiveness and morale. The department has promised to pursue the matter vigorously to ensure accountability and reinforce a safe working environment for all personnel.