Ben Roberts-Smith: Australia’s most decorated veteran issues public statement over war crimes allegations

Well, for the past 10 years, my family and I have been subject to a campaign to convince Australians that I have acted improperly in my service in Afghanistan.

As I have always maintained, I categorically deny all of these allegations and while I would have preferred these charges not be brought, I will be taking this opportunity to finally clear my name.

I’m proud of my service in Afghanistan. While I was there, I always acted within my values, within my training and within the rules of engagement.

I’d also like to say that I am extremely proud of all of the men and women that served alongside me in Afghanistan and their service and sacrifice should never be forgotten. Particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Many of whom were my friends.

I’d like to thank my partner Sarah, my beautiful daughters, my mother and father and all of Sarah’s family for their unwavering support to standing by me during this difficult time.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the millions of Australians who have reached out to me publicly and privately to offer their support and well wishes. It means a great deal to me and is extremely humbling.

I understand this is an unprecedented case and the public interest is huge and the media has a job to do, which they should be allowed to do.

But I would ask that the media please allow my family their privacy at this time.

Particularly my children, who have already unfortunately suffered through a deliberate, sensational arrest that was made last week. An unnecessary spectacle.

I understand this journey will be long. I understand this journey will be difficult. But I can promise everybody that I have never run from a fight in my life.

I will never give up and I will always be in the fight. Thank you.

- Ben Roberts-Smith, Sunday 19th April 2026