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Townsville soldiers cautioned over sexist Facebook posts

An entire Australian Army brigade has been warned over its use of social media as the Australian Defence Force continues its investigation into two Facebook pages that demean women.

Australian soldiers have been killed in another incident in Afghanistan, Defence says.
(File: AAP) Source: AAP

Soldiers from the Army's Townsville-based rapid response 3rd Brigade were issued a caution against "unacceptable behaviour" on social media, and warned disciplinary action could be taken if members were found to be involved.

An ADF spokeswoman told SBS that "preliminary enquiries suggest that a small number of serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members have associated themselves" with the pages.

"In light of recent events, all 3rd Brigade personnel have been reminded of their responsibilities concerning unacceptable behaviour and the use of social media," she said.

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The Army describes the 3rd Brigade as a "multi-role combat brigade" consisting of more than 4,000 personnel. Its soldiers are currently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Earlier this week, SBS revealed the Australian Defence Force was investigating two Facebook pages that demeaned women, including one that referred to "all women" as "sluts", while another made reference to "fat chicks" living in Townsville.

Several of the people making comments appeared to be current or former ADF members, with some listing the "Australian Army" as their employer and others posting pictures of themselves in dress and operational uniform. The pages date back to 2011, but were not removed from the site until yesterday.

The ADF warned there would be "zero tolerance" for serving members found to be behaving inappropriately.

"Should it be confirmed that any serving member has made comments on either Facebook page which are contrary to Defence values and social media policy, disciplinary and/or administrative action will be taken," the spokesperson said.

The latest incident is not related to a second investigation underway into an alleged email sex ring believed to involve members of the ADF, including senior officers.


2 min read

Published

Updated

By Rhiannon Elston

Source: SBS


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