On June 18, 2026, Bill C-11, An Act to amend the National Defence Act and other Acts (Military Justice System Modernization Act) received Royal Assent.

“The Royal Assent of Bill C-11 marks a significant milestone in our efforts to modernize Canada’s military justice system and strengthen trust within the Canadian Armed Forces. These legislative changes respond to recommendations from the Independent External Comprehensive Review led by former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour, as well as other independent expert reviews, and reflect our unwavering commitment to a system that is fair, transparent, accountable, and worthy of those who serve Canada. By strengthening accountability, reinforcing the independence of the military justice system, enhancing access and support for victims, and advancing meaningful culture change across the Canadian Armed Forces, this legislation represents an important step forward. Together, these reforms will help build a stronger institution, uphold the highest standards of fairness and integrity, and ensure the Canadian Armed Forces remain ready, resilient, and trusted by the Canadians they serve.”

The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence 

“A military justice system is essential to maintaining discipline, operational effectiveness, and morale across the Canadian Armed Forces. The Royal Assent of Bill C-11 marks an important milestone in the continued evolution of a system that serves our members and supports operational readiness. These reforms enhance support for those affected by misconduct, reinforce confidence in our processes, and help ensure our military justice system remains fair, effective, and aligned with the expectations of Canadians.”

General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff   

 “Royal Assent of the Military Justice System Modernization Act brings into law critical measures that will help deliver lasting institutional change across the Defence Team. It strengthens the integrity, transparency, and effectiveness of the military justice system. These legislative changes build on sustained efforts across the Defence Team to address independent recommendations and advance meaningful, long-term institutional reform. Together, these measures support a more modern, accountable, and trusted system—one that better serves Defence Team members and reinforces confidence among Canadians.”

Christiane Fox, Deputy Minister of National Defence  

• The Military Justice System Modernization Act was tabled in the House of Commons on March 21, 2024 as Bill C-66. Bill C-66 lapsed with the prorogation of Parliament on January 6, 2025. A bill was re-introduced in the House of Commons with the tabling of Bill C-11 on September 26, 2025.

• This legislation amends the National Defence Act to, among other things:

  • Implement recommendations (2, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16) from the Third Independent Review of the National Defence Act.
  • Address Recommendation 5 from the Independent External Comprehensive Review of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (IECR) which called for the removal of the CAF’s investigative and prosecutorial jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences committed in Canada.
  • Exclude military judges from the summary hearing system, and expand access to Victim Liaison Officers, under the Declaration of Victims Rights, to individuals acting on behalf of a victim.
  • Align sex offender information and publication ban provisions with the amendments made to the Criminal Code in An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Sex Offender Information Registration Act and the International Transfer of Offenders Act. These amendments are necessary to maintain the constitutionality of the military justice system and its alignment with the Criminal Code and the civilian criminal justice system.

• Two clauses from Bill C-11 will come into force 60 days after Royal Assent pertaining to the removal of CAF jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute Criminal Code sexual offences alleged to have been committed in Canada. This change results in the exclusive jurisdiction over these offences resting with civilian authorities. The other provisions will come into force on dates determined by order of the Governor-in-Council.

• The Defence Community Support and Resource Centre (DCSRC), formerly the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre, remains a steady source of support for victims and survivors. If individuals need support, they can call 1-844-750-1648 at any time.

Related products

• Bill C-11 Receives Royal Assent, Bringing New Military Justice Reforms into Force

Associated links

• The Third Independent Review of the National Defence Act
• Independent External Comprehensive Review
• Conduct and Culture
• Defence Community Support and Resource Centre

Muntaha Ahmed
Office of the Minister of National Defence 
Email: Muntaha.ahmed@forces.gc.ca

Media Relations 
Department of National Defence 
Phone: 613-904-3333 
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca