Demand Action on Sexual Assault in the Australian Defence Force
2024 Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide - Accountability Progress
We bring this petition forward in response to the publicly shared lived experience of ADF member Leah Whittle, whose ongoing case demonstrates institutional failure to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable, even in the presence of corroborating evidence.
The ADF has been subject to decades of reviews and inquiries highlighting systemic cultural failures and the mistreatment of women. Despite repeated recommendations, meaningful reform has lagged. On 2 December 2024, the Government accepted the majority of its 122 recommendations, including urgent reform of the ADF’s handling of sexual misconduct, leadership accountability, and survivor support.
Yet six months on, survivors like Leah still experience silence, inaction and retaliation.
Sign the Petition today and help us seek urgent reform.
Women in Defence Association
Women in Defence Association (WiDA) is the leading catalyst for gender equity and inclusion within the defence sector.
WiDA fosters a culture where women thrive and their contributions to global security and innovation are acknowledged and celebrated.
We leverage our collective voice and lived experiences to engage with stakeholders, challenging societal norms and advocating for actionable policies and targets to ensure accountability. WiDA fosters a supportive community, committed to breaking down barriers, promoting inclusivity and driving meaningful progress towards gender equity and diversity.
WiDA provides women a platform for professional advancement, networking and mentorship, going beyond traditional empowerment initiatives.
We believe in changing the system, not women, to create genuine inclusivity.
We welcome all genders working in defence and those interested in learning more about the sector to join WiDA.
Membership provides access to a global network across government, the defence industry, defence forces and academia.
Upcoming Events
- WA NetworkingWed, 25 JuneRockingham
- NSW NetworkingThu, 03 JulyKinselas Hotel, Level 1
- SA NetworkingWed, 09 JulyCrowne Plaza Adelaide Mawson Lakes by IH
- QLD NetworkingWed, 16 JulyJubilee Hotel
Make a Donation to WiDA Today!
WiDA is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
WiDA strives to offer all of its Events, Programs and Workshops free of charge to the community to ensure people from all socioeconomic status can access opportunities.
WiDA welcomes any donations that go towards assisting us in delivering our services free of charge. Please note, this is not a tax deductible donation.
WiDA Goals:
Increase female workforce participation, representation and professional development
Develop networks for women in defence and achieve balanced networking participation
Reduce gender pay gap of Defence companies to below National average
Platinum Partners
