ADF tracked social media of civilians and veterans over Anzac Day protest
ADF officials monitored social media posts from civilians and veterans supporting Ben Roberts-Smith before Anzac Day.
The Australian Defence Force monitored Facebook posts in the lead-up to Anzac Day. The posts came from members of the public, veterans, and military personnel.
The posts showed support for Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia's most highly decorated soldier. Ben Roberts-Smith faced war crime charges.
Protesters called for a "quiet, respectful show of solidarity". They wanted people to wear green ribbons on their medals on Anzac Day.
Internal ADF correspondence was released under freedom of information laws. It shows Defence officials recorded the posts.
They told senior commanders about them. They called it a protest movement.
The Defence Department said guidance on wearing approved medals is standard. Green ribbons were not allowed for uniformed members.
Shadow Defence Minister Phillip Thompson called the monitoring disgraceful. He said Defence should focus on military strength instead.
It should not track civilians and veterans.
- Lead-up to Anzac Day (April 25)
- Timing
- Green ribbons on medals
- Planned action
- Phillip Thompson, Shadow Defence Minister
- Critic
Why it mattersThis raises a question about government power. Should the government monitor civilians and veterans on social media? They were sharing lawful political views.
AustraliaCould determine whether Australians expressing support for military figures on social media can be monitored by Defence officials, and sets precedent for future dissent.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
