BLOOD MONEY

Secret compo paid to Iraqis
By Mark DunnAugust 26, 2005

THE Australian Defence Force has made secret payments to families of Iraqis killed by Australian troops.The ADF has worked with US and British armed forces to establish compensation rates to be paid to civilian victims in the war zone, believed to include those caught in crossfire or mistakenly shot at checkpoints.

The amount paid and number of payments are being kept secret because the ADF claims the information could compromise Commonwealth finances and international relations.

But because the ADF has worked with the US military on setting compensation rates, it is believed the payments range from $1500 to $15,000, packages previously confirmed by American officials.

From a cultural perspective, financial compensation is highly important to the Iraqi sense of justice. Where payments are not made for losses, Iraqis traditionally demand an eye for an eye.

But based on the US compensation system, the ADF would refuse to pay money where they argue soldiers believed they were attacking an enemy, even though the target may turn out to be a civilian bystander or "collateral" victim.

The ADF is believed to pay an applicant or their family only if negligence is found.

Property damage and traffic accidents may also be covered.

US officials last year said they paid out on 1168 compensation claims totalling $345,779, mostly for property damage.
Australian troops have opened fire on Iraqis in 14 incidents since peacekeeping and rebuilding operations began in July 2003, but the ADF has previously said it found soldiers' actions complied with the rules of engagement.

After almost seven months of ADF deliberations, a Freedom of Information request by the Herald Sun seeking details of the compensation program was this week denied by Rear Admiral Rowan Moffitt.

"Disclosure of the amounts of compensation paid to Iraqi civilians would have a substantial adverse effect on the financial interests of the Commonwealth," Rear Admiral Moffitt said.

Link Here