Summary of "Ben Roberts-Smith: 'I don't trust you mate'"

Overview

Ben Roberts-Smith responds to criticism and the handling of an inquiry by expressing deep distrust toward certain journalists and people connected to them. He argues that the controversy stems from statements and press activity linked to individuals close to the media—particularly events from 2012, when he was a patrol commander.

His Framing of the Inquiry

He says he is no longer interested in the inquiry as it has been framed as a broad, sweeping accusation that “fits everybody” and lacks purpose.
He indicates that the only useful information for him is what he has heard from journalists directly, and he claims he has never been spoken to by them.
He notes that, despite past friendship, he cannot easily “pick up the phone” to resolve matters, citing the circumstances at the time and implying there were pressures and risks that made direct communication unrealistic.

What He Claims About His Role

Across his comments, Roberts-Smith portrays himself as having endured six years of ongoing public claims with no choice. He believes others created a damaging position that he did not create himself.

He also emphasizes that he does not have a direct “beef” with the specific person being addressed, but rather with the group dynamics and those who fueled the narrative.

What He Wants

He states that what he wants is for the situation to stop—“go away”—and for further harm to the unit to cease. He claims he has consistently “stuck to the code,” and he concludes that nothing is likely to change his mind.

He portrays himself as still one of the few who has not publicly spoken, and frames his actions at the time as primarily self-protective.