Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Four former Australian servicewomen filed a class action lawsuit in federal court in Sydney on Friday, alleging they were victims of sexual violence.
Thousands of female soldiers were set to join the lawsuit against the Australian Defense Force, alleging widespread, systemic sexual violence and harassment, including rape, assault, molestation, forcible kissing, discrimination and bullying.
Women who suffered sexual violence, sexual harassment or discrimination while serving in any capacity in the Army, Navy, Air Force or training institutions over a 21-year period from November 2003 to May 2025 are eligible to join the action.
The lead law firm on the suit, JGA Saddler, did not give a figure on the recompense it hoped to secure for women who signed up to take part, stressing that it was not only about money but affecting change amid ADF denials and refusal to address the issue.
"The damages sought will be the subject of expert evidence throughout the proceedings, however damages will be an amount which makes the highest levels of our government and the Defense Force take this issue seriously," said JGA Saddler director Joshua Aylward.
