Sydney University Regiment: Army officer promoted despite bullying claims

An army officer has been promoted despite an ongoing investigation into alleged bullying and harassment of young cadets at the Sydney University Regiment.

A senior figure at a Sydney army regiment mired in bullying claims is set to be promoted to a plum Defence role in Canberra despite an ongoing investigation into serious allegations by top military brass.

More details are emerging about the treatment of cadets at the Sydney University Regiment as one of their superior officers is preparing to take up a new gig at the Royal Military College in the nation’s capital, according to several Defence sources.

The move, considered a promotion in Defence circles, has angered some young cadets who raised concerns that the treatment they endured at the regiment left them needing psychological help.

One cadet was reportedly “spat at” recently by a staff member and room searches that some cadets believe are illegal and under investigation are still continuing, a Defence source said.

Images of cadets in the regiment based at Sydney’s Holsworthy Barracks holding pool noodles to social distance were also ridiculed online when they were published by a satirical army Instagram page.

The Sunday Telegraph also understands one cadet was recently transferred out of the Sydney University Regiment after her plight was raised directly to Defence Minister Peter Dutton’s office.

One source, speaking anonymously as they are not authorised to publicly comment, said the family reached out in desperation after learning of the experience there.

One of the cadets there will now stand trial in the District Court next year after he was charged with allegedly sexually assaulting another cadet at the regiment on base.

Jack Bannerman, 19, pleaded not guilty earlier this week to the allegations in the Local Court.

The Inspector General of the Australian Defence Force is currently reviewing a report on a litany of claims from dozens of junior soldiers who came forward about what they experienced at the regiment.

The University of Sydney is involved in a number of military-related programs. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Damian Shaw

One of the most serious claims is that the cadet who reported the sexual assault was then left on the same platoon with the man who she alleged assaulted her.

The IGADF is also looking into why one senior officer then named her in front of her peers when the case was published in the media.

Defence declined to answer a series of detailed questions, dispute the allegations or clarify any details but instead re-sent a statement from August this year.

“The Australian Army is aware of allegations involving the Sydney University Regiment raised at Senate Estimates on 02 June 21 and has commenced inquiries into these allegations,” the statement said.

“The allegations have also been referred to the Inspector General Australian Defence Force (IGADF). Noting this, it would not be appropriate to comment any further.

“Defence does not tolerate unacceptable behaviour and takes action when unacceptable behaviour occurs.

“All Defence personnel are expected to behave in accordance with the Defence values and behaviours.”

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