May 5, 2026 at 10:12 AM
Victims of serious and sexual crime to receive better protection and support in Armed Forces justice reforms
Victims of serious and sexual crimes to receive improved guidance and support in the Service Justice System
Military personnel and civilians who experience sexual assault, domestic abuse or stalking at the hands of serving members of the Armed Forces will receive stronger protections under the new Armed Forces Bill. The Bill, which is being debated in Parliament today for its Second Reading, introduces a suite of measures to protect victims of serious and sexual offences within the Service Justice System. These include: New protective orders to enable swifter action against perpetrators, reducing the risk of further harm to victims of inappropriate sexualised behaviours, domestic abuse, stalking and harassment.
Stronger guidance and support to help victims provide an informed view to prosecutors on whether they want their case tried in civilian courts or the military system. The Bill will also give service police increased powers for investigations, including introducing new powers for Service police to authorise pre-charge custody. Currently only commanding officers can authorise pre-charge detention after arrest.