The Governor-General has told the military’s latest graduates they will need to “reassure and reaffirm” the relationship with the Australian public following last month’s explosive Afghanistan war crimes report.
Key points:
- Retired General David Hurley said building the ADF’s reputation will be “part of your work” for graduates
- More than 300 took part in the graduation ceremony in Canberra on Sunday
- The war crimes report recommended 19 soldiers be investigated by police for the alleged murder of 39 Afghan prisoners and civilians
Retired General David Hurley, who served as Chief of Defence between 2011 and 2015, acknowledged the damning findings of the inquiry while delivering a graduation speech for officers at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra.
“[The ADF has] an enormous task of protecting our country while reassuring and reaffirming its relationship with the Australian people following the findings of the Brereton inquiry,” General Hurley said.
“Bringing the Australian people along with the ADF will be an enormous part of your work in the future.”
The Afghan Files
The ABC’s Afghan Files stories in 2017 gave an unprecedented insight into the operations of Australia’s elite special forces, detailing incidents of troops killing unarmed men and children and concerns about a “warrior culture” among soldiers.
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A four-year-long inquiry by Justice Paul Brereton recommended 19 soldiers be investigated by police for the alleged murder of 39 Afghan prisoners and civilians, and the cruel treatment of two others.
General Hurley told the audience they were “extremely well equipped to make an important contribution to your country” but needed to ensure as military leaders they listened to their troops.
“Leadership is not easy — I think you’ve learnt that by now — you’ll have to make decisions that have consequences for people and often make those decisions under pressure,” he said.
“The good lord gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason: listen.”