THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Friday, 4 July 2008
088/2008
SENIOR COUNSEL TO REVIEW HMAS MELBOURNE CLAIMS
The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon
MP, announced today that Mr Jeremy Gormly SC will oversee the remaining
unresolved claims from the HMAS Voyager and HMAS Melbourne collision.
“The tragedy cost 82 lives that night and it is terrible that issues related to the
collision are still being heard 44 years later,” said Mr Snowdon.
“We promised before the election in 2007 that a Rudd Labor Government
would undertake a review to progress the mediation of the outstanding
damages claims and following the recommendation of the Attorney-General,
the Hon Robert McClelland MP, Mr Gormly has been appointed to the task.
“Mr Gormly has extensive experience over a range of practice areas, including
common law personal injuries claims. He is an ideal person to review the
litigation and explore ways to advance the remaining 24 claims for damages
by former HMAS Melbourne crew.
“Last year 50 Melbourne cases were resolved through negotiation, with a
further 18 settled this year.
“I am quite sure the review, which will commence immediately, will ensure the
positive results of mediation continue,” said Mr Snowdon.
“Mr Gormly will report to me at the conclusion of his review, and I will discuss
his observations and recommendations with the Attorney General” said Mr
Snowdon.
Media contacts:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
