Skype Sex Scandal Victim “Kate” Says ADF Leaked Sensitive Information About Her
The Australian Defence Force is allegedly guilty of abusing its authority over its cadets' sensitive information as it purportedly leaked confidential medical records of Skype sex scandal victim "Kate".
This was alleged by "Kate" through an interview with ABC's PM program.
Twenty-one-year-old "Kate" said that in the span of the Skype sex scandal trial, ADF had intentionally gave away supposedly confidential medical records of her to the media. The act was aimed to discredit her.
"There was an incident where my medical records [were] obtained without the correct permission," "Kate" told ABC.
"There was a news story about sensitive personal information that only could come from my medical documents, including the fact that I was on the contraceptive pill at the time."
In a statement from Defence obtained by ABC, the department said that it has "provided extensive support including logistics, medical, administrative and legal support to assist the member" and will continue to do so. Complaints made by 'Officer Cadet Kate' have been investigated with the highest priority. Defence has not received a legal claim at this time. Defence has not provided Officer Cadet Kate's medical information to the media. Defence has only provided records to official investigators, in accordance with the Privacy Act."
Chief of Army David Morrison assured that any ADF who committed any act of misdemeanor towards their colleagues will be expelled from the army. However, "Kate" said that discrimination towards women cadets still happens in the army.
"That isolation that people could suffer if they broke ranks and spoke up - that's what they're scared of. It kind of became the child in the schoolyard being bullied and nobody's willing to step forward because they're scared of the retribution that they would face from it," "Kate said.
In fact, "Kate" said that she had suffered harassment at ADF bases again and again.
During her time serving at RAAF Amberley in Queensland, ADF boy soldiers made fun of her.
"[Some] boys in the room across from me thought it was fun to terrorise me and call me the Skype slut continually every time I left my room," according to "Kate."
And now, "Kate" was being kicked out from the military apparently on medical and psychological reasons, while convicted cadet Daniel McDonald was cleared and was to resume his studies at the ADFA.
"We have a convicted criminal now being sponsored through taxpayers' money to continue his education when the victim is being kicked out," Kate said.
"How is that fair?"