(1)   Is the Minister aware of the report in Crikey.com of 2 August 2005, concerning the injuries sustained by soldiers of Tonga, Fiji and Australia as a result of a motor vehicle accident in the Kimberleys; if so: (a) what investigation has been conducted into the accident; (b) by whom; (c) what were the findings; and (d) what disciplinary or other action has been taken.

(2) (a)   What was the extent of injury sustained by the soldiers; and (b) what was the cost of the damage done to the vehicle.

(3)   Was alcohol consumption found to be a contributing factor.

(1)  

   Yes.

   (a)   Investigations by the Army Military Police, in consultation with Western Australia Police, commenced immediately after the incident.

   (b)   Army Military Police and Western Australia Police.

   (c)   The investigations have not been finalised.

   (d)   No disciplinary action has been taken as the investigations have not yet been finalised. Some actions were undertaken locally to identify any immediate risks and appropriate road transport regulations were re-emphasised to mitigate against future accidents.

(2)  

(a)   Injuries sustained to soldiers included minor cuts and bruising, deeper lacerations requiring surgery and some back injuries.

(b)   The vehicle sustained significant damage. The cost of repair or replacement will be determined after the conclusion of the investigations.

(3)   Until the investigations are completed it is not possible to determine whether alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the accident.