Hidden Camera in Women's Showers: Investigation Shakes Australian Navy

The Australian Department of Defence announced on Wednesday that it had opened an investigation following the discovery of a camera aboard one of its naval vessels, specifically in the shower areas designated for women.

In a statement, the Department of Defence said the device was found aboard the ship "HMAS Llewellyn," which is docked in Cairns in the northeast of the country, without providing further details.

Senator Jacqui Lambie informed her parliamentary colleagues on Wednesday that she had received a message from a former member of the Navy reporting the recent discovery of hidden cameras in the women's shower facilities.

She added, "What is even more concerning are the claims that images captured by these cameras were published online before the cameras were discovered."

The Department of Defence announced the opening of an investigation and confirmed that it "takes this incident very seriously and does not tolerate any unacceptable behavior, regardless of its form." It added: "The ship remained docked to allow the investigation to proceed and to ensure immediate support for its crew members."

It continued: "The safety and well-being of personnel remain a priority for the Department of Defence, and necessary support continues to be provided to them."

Opening Investigations
It clarified: "Given that the incident is still under investigation, and out of concern for protecting the privacy of those affected, the Department of Defence cannot provide further comments at this time."

The ministry affirmed that "specialized support is available to its personnel at any time."

Senator Jacqui Lambie said she was informed that recordings made by the cameras were published online before the device was discovered, noting that her source fears similar devices may exist on other Australian Navy ships.

Questions Without Answers
Lambie asked in the Senate: "How many sailors were filmed in their most private moments?"

She added: "What is the volume of recordings that have been circulated so far without the knowledge or consent of their owners?"

She concluded by saying: "These are the questions I am putting to the Navy today. The matter has come to light, and it can no longer be covered up."