The Department of Defence faces a $1.5 million fine over a crocodile attack. 

The Department faces court after allegedly failing to adequately train its personnel, leading to a crocodile attack incident involving two soldiers. 

The incident has prompted federal authorities to bring charges against the Department under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, shedding light on alleged lapses in providing a safe workplace.

The incident in question took place in August 2021 when two army soldiers stationed in Darwin were transporting a landing craft from Darwin to Townsville for maintenance. 

Despite the clear dangers posed by crocodile-infested waters, the soldiers were allegedly granted permission to indulge in recreational fishing at the Cape York Peninsula community of Portland Road. 

This coastal fishing village, located approximately 750 kilometers north of Cairns, is known for its crocodile habitat.

During their ill-fated trip, the soldiers decided to go swimming, and tragedy struck almost immediately.

A 2.5-meter saltwater crocodile attacked one of the soldiers, dragging him underwater and causing severe injuries through bites and claw wounds. 

The other soldier, in his early 30s, fought off the crocodile, enabling both of them to escape back to their Zodiac inflatable boat.

Both soldiers required medical attention for their injuries and were transported from the site to Lockhart River airport by a rescue helicopter, courtesy of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, before being rushed to Cairns Hospital for further treatment.

An investigation by Comcare, Australia's workplace watchdog, has now resulted in the Department of Defence being charged for failing in its responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of its personnel. 

The charges include the alleged absence of adequate training, the lack of policies prohibiting personnel from entering crocodile-infested waters, failure to conduct proper risk assessments, and the omission of comprehensive safety briefings about the dangers of crocodile encounters.

A spokesperson for the Department of Defence expressed gratitude for the rescue mission but refrained from commenting further on the matter due to its legal nature. 

The spokesperson emphasised that the safety of their personnel is of paramount importance and aligns with the Department's mission of safeguarding Australia and its national interests.

The charge brought against the Department of Defence falls under a Category 2 offence as per the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. 

If found guilty, the department could face a maximum fine of $1.5 million. The case is scheduled for mention in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on September 15, 2023.