Australia Lifts Gag Orders for Military Sexual Assault Victims

Survivors of sexual violence in the Australian military are finally getting their voices back.

Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh has waived all non-disclosure agreements that prevented military sexual assault survivors from discussing their experiences. The decision clears the way for honest testimony at a major inquiry beginning later in 2026.

The change came after a powerful campaign led by Julia Delaforce, a former Royal Australian Air Force airwoman and whistleblower. After reporting a horrific assault involving a machete-wielding corporal, she was offered a settlement that legally gagged her from speaking about what happened.

"Veterans who served this country should not have to ask permission to speak about their lived experiences of military sexual violence," Delaforce said. She called the amnesty a critical step toward exposing the institutional systems that failed survivors.

The inquiry was recommended by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which completed its work in 2024. For it to be meaningful, survivors needed protection from legal threats and retaliation.

Minister Keogh's letter to victims confirms that the Australian Defence Force no longer issues NDAs in sexual harassment and violence cases. Instead, matters are now handled through a facilitated "restorative engagement" process that doesn't silence survivors.

Why This Inspires

This victory represents years of brave advocacy by people who refused to stay silent despite legal pressure. Survivors like Delaforce turned their pain into purpose, pushing for systemic change that will help others feel safe coming forward.

Regina Featherstone of the Human Rights Law Centre, which supported the campaign, said the era of cover-up must end. The organization is now urging the government to make the amnesty permanent, ensuring survivors can participate in the inquiry and beyond without fear.

The government has maintained confidentiality only for financial settlement details and matters unrelated to sexual violence experiences. Everything else can now be discussed openly.

Survivors who served their country can finally tell their truth without legal consequences hanging over their heads.