The last few years have seen a turning point in our history as a Nation and the way in which we allow our Veterans to be treated here at home.
Trials by media over war crimes allegations have caused more damage to the lives and reputations of many Veterans than any enemy we fought overseas. As Veterans, we welcome any and all investigations into any allegations of conduct that goes against our values and the laws of war. However, too many of us have been exposed to actions and agendas by some that have and continue to cause issues for many within our veteran community.
Due process and the presumption of innocence have been replaced with haste to publish any allegations that have yet to be tested against the appropriate laws, and the presumption of guilt has been cast over all named, or implied as involved. The only recourse that has been available for any Veterans accused of being a war criminal by the media is to launch Civil Defamation proceedings, if they can personally afford to do so, without any support from the Department of Defence or Australian Defence Force
It is time for the voices of everyday Australians to be heard and decide what is needed. Below is a motion calling for the establishment of a Veterans’ Protection Act - please read and indicate your support below:
This legislation recognises the unique nature of service in our Australian Defence Force, and the extremely unique circumstances and sensitivities arising from military operations, particularly combat operations, and the impact that less considered public conversations have caused to our Veteran community and families, as well as our international reputation.
We, the Australian people, hereby call for legislation that requires:
1. Any criminal accusations or allegations arising from any military operations, must be tried and tested in a criminal court of law, to the standards of evidence beyond reasonable doubt, and by a jury of peers, and that protects the identities of all involved until a final verdict is reached.
2. No media is able to report the details of any individual names or specific military units in connection with any allegations of any crimes or incidents arising from any military operations until they have been proven and convicted, not simply charged, in a criminal court. This would mean that the media are able to report that there is an allegation pertaining to the Department of Defence - thereby, requiring the Department of Defence and the Australian Defence Force to step up and be the representation in the public.
We recognise this as the people of Australia and move to have this legislation enshrined as law for the benefit of our Nation and all our Veterans past, present and for generations to come.