Australia Investigates Discovery of Hidden Camera in Women’s Bathroom on Navy Ship

Australia’s Department of Defence has launched an investigation after a hidden camera was reportedly discovered in a women’s bathroom aboard a Royal Australian Navy vessel docked in the northeastern city of Cairns.

The department confirmed on Wednesday, 14 October, that a device had been found aboard HMAS Leeuwin. However, officials have not disclosed further details about how the device was discovered or whether anyone has been identified in connection with the incident.

Australian Senator Jacqui Lambie said she had received a letter from a former naval personnel member alleging that hidden cameras had been discovered in the women’s bathroom aboard the vessel.

Lambie also said allegations had emerged that footage recorded by the cameras may have been shared online before the devices were discovered. The alleged online distribution of the footage has not been independently confirmed.

The Department of Defence said it was treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and would not tolerate unacceptable behaviour in any form.

As of the latest available report, no further details had been released about the investigation’s findings or whether the alleged online publication of footage had been verified.

The incident has raised concerns about privacy and the protection of personnel in private facilities within Australia’s defence forces.