Defence probes soldiers' Facebook comments

The Department of Defence has launched a probe into allegations that Australian soldiers serving in Afghanistan posted inappropriate comments to Facebook accounts.

The Age newspaper reported derogatory comments allegedly aimed at Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd, and racist remarks allegedly aimed at Afghan locals.

Acting Chief of Army, Major General Paul Symon, said the Army was "appalled" by the reported behaviour.

"It is totally unacceptable and does not represent Army values of courage, initiative and teamwork," he said.

"These soldiers have demonstrated a lack of decency and professional judgement, and brought discredit to themselves and disrepute to the Army and the Australian Defence Force."

Defence said in a statement that it would take "appropriate disciplinary or administrative action" against any individual found to be in the wrong by the investigation.