Angus Taylor (Hume, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Defence) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today we've learned that, after spending more than $250 million of taxpayers' money, the Office of the Special Investigator has dropped more than two-thirds of its investigations into allegations of war crimes by Australian special forces in Afghanistan. There are just 16 of 53 matters remaining under active investigation. Just one case has led to charges. Despite years of work, hundreds of millions of dollars, and over 100 staff, there is little to show. These investigations have dragged on, with timelines stretching towards the end of the decade. There are legitimate questions to be asked about the OSI's efficiency and effectiveness.

If there is sufficient evidence to prosecute, that should happen without delay. If not, cases should be closed. We cannot allow this process to continue indefinitely, hanging over the heads of our veterans and families. It risks becoming denial of justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. Many of our special forces veterans feel that they've lost the presumption of innocence. This is about fairness, justice and basic decency. We need to do more to support our veterans; we must act. I recently came back from Pollie Pedal, supporting Wandering Warriors, who support those who've worn our uniform. Australians hold deep respect for our service men and women. Our veterans deserve nothing less.