Ben Roberts-Smith has withdrawn from attending the official opening of the newly renovated Anzac Hall and atrium at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra after reportedly falling ill.
The former SAS soldier and Victoria Cross recipient had been invited to attend the ceremony alongside other living Victoria Cross recipients. However, because he is currently facing five criminal charges relating to alleged war crimes during his deployments in Afghanistan, he was required to seek a variation to his bail conditions in order to travel from New South Wales to the Australian Capital Territory.
His application was successful, clearing the way for him to attend the event. Despite that, his defence lawyer later informed Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court that Roberts-Smith had become unwell in recent days and had decided not to travel to Canberra.
The invitation itself generated significant public debate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Defence Minister Richard Marles both defended the decision to invite Roberts-Smith, arguing that it was appropriate for him to attend as a Victoria Cross recipient. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson also publicly supported his attendance, stating that he remains innocent until proven guilty.
Others disagreed, pointing to the serious nature of the charges he faces and arguing that his presence at the event would have been inappropriate while criminal proceedings remain before the courts.
The withdrawal means Roberts-Smith will not attend the ceremony, avoiding what was expected to be a highly scrutinised appearance. Veterans who have previously criticised him were also expected to be present, adding to the tension surrounding the event.
With his trial still ahead, the broader legal questions remain unresolved. For now, the focus has shifted away from the ceremony itself and back to the court process that will ultimately determine the outcome of the allegations.
As always, the presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of Australia’s legal system, and the charges against Roberts-Smith have not been proven in a criminal court.