Australia's Department of Defence announced on 14/10 that it received information on 11/10 regarding the discovery of a recording device. This device was found in a compartment of the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Leeuwin while the vessel was berthed in Cairns, Queensland.

The department stated that the incident has been referred to the Joint Military Police Unit, and the Department of Defence is cooperating with civilian authorities in the investigation. "The Department of Defence takes this matter extremely seriously and does not tolerate any misconduct in any form," the statement affirmed.

The HMAS Leeuwin. Photo: Australia's Department of Defence

The announcement came hours after Senator Jacqui Lambie, a vocal advocate for Australian service members' rights, informed the Senate that she had received reports of cameras being found on the HMAS Leeuwin. Lambie stated that a whistleblower revealed hidden cameras were recently discovered in the female sailors' bathroom area on the ship.

The senator added that she understands this incident occurred recently, leading to the ship being temporarily taken out of service during the investigation. "Even more concerning are reports suggesting that images from these cameras may have been distributed online before their discovery," Lambie said.

Senator Jacqui Lambie. Photo: AAP

Lambie questioned how many female sailors on board were secretly filmed in their most private moments. She also raised concerns about how many images were distributed online without their knowledge or consent.

Australia's Department of Defence affirmed that the welfare of individuals remains its top priority, and support measures are being implemented. The agency stated, "As the matter is under investigation and to protect the privacy of those involved, the Department of Defence cannot provide further comment at this time."

Ngoc Anh (According to Guardian, ABC)