No prosecution over HMAS Ballarat claims

Australian Defence Force investigators have failed to find enough evidence to successfully prosecute any sailors over allegations of unacceptable behaviour aboard HMAS Ballarat.

Investigators boarded HMAS Ballarat last November after a sailor made allegations of sexual assault against several members of the ship's company.

Three sailors were later suspended from duties and faced potential prosecution.

But the Department of Defence said on Friday the evidence that was referred to the Director of Military Prosecutions was insufficient to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction.

An inquiry officer will now determine if administrative action is warranted and identify any broader procedural or cultural issues that may require further action by the navy, the department said in a statement.