Defence Statement
One other Australian Army soldier was injured, and did not require hospitalisation.
We request that the privacy of Defence members and families is respected at this time.
Defence will provide further updates when possible.
Defence Media Release
It is with great sadness Defence can confirm the death of Special Air Service Regiment soldier Warrant Officer Class Two Lachlan Muddle during a parachute training accident on the evening of 11 May 2026. The death of one of our soldiers is a tragedy and deeply felt by the Army family and across the broader Defence community.
One Australian Army soldier received minor injuries in the accident and did not require hospitalisation.
Our highest priority is to support Warrant Officer Class Two Muddle’s family and all members involved in this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with them, their friends and the Regiment as they grieve his loss. We request that the privacy of Defence members and families is respected during this difficult time.
Defence is committed to ensuring the safety of its personnel during all training activities. The Australian Defence Force has temporarily paused all parachuting training.
Military Ordinariate
To his unit and mates, we stand in solidarity with those who served alongside him, particularly within his unit's community, who now carry the weight of his absence.
The wider defence community, as we recognise the ripple effect such a tragedy has on all who wear the uniform.
For Catholic Chaplaincy Support
1300 333 362 (24/7)