Dozens of soldiers flout rules on virus

THE number of Townsville soldiers caught breaking COVID-19 rules during the height of the pandemic in Australia can be revealed, and how they were punished.

A Freedom of Information request by the Bulletin revealed 31 army members were caught breaching COVID-19 restrictions in April.

Seven soldiers were dealt with under the Defence Force Discipline Act, 10 faced administrative action and another 10 are waiting to face action or be charged under the DFDA.

Four were let off the hook and none of the soldiers caught breaking the rules have been discharged.

In mid-april, eight soldiers were busted flouting social distancing at a house party, with police issuing fines.

3rd Brigade Commander Brigadier Kahlil Fegan said all soldiers were expected to comply with government and COVID-19 health directives.

“I am incredibly disappointed that a small number of our soldiers failed to strictly adhere to social-distancing rules and government requirements,” he said.

“Defence has or is taking corrective action in relation to these members.

“The ability of 3 Brigade and all Defence members to follow direction is critical to our professionalism and effectiveness.”

A Defence spokesman said members could face both disciplinary and administrative action to maintain the reputation of the ADF.

“The DFDA provides a disciplinary system tailored to the ADF and the conduct of operations by the ADF, both in Australia and overseas,” he said.

“It includes a range of punishments, including fines, reduction in rank, loss of seniority (and) imprisonment.

“Administrative action … can include a range of sanctions, which can impact upon career progression, up to and including termination of service.”