A YOUNG Afghan girl suffered superficial injuries from Australian fire during an operation in Afghanistan last month, Defence says.
Australian troops identified the girl's injuries shortly after an engagement with suspected insurgents in late July 2011 and gave her first aid treatment.
"An investigation into the incident has determined that the girl was probably struck by a piece of debris from a mud-brick wall that had been hit by Australian Defence Force (ADF) direct fire," Defence said.
"No civilians were observed by the troops prior to the engagement commencing," it said.
Defence said Australian rules of engagement were designed to minimise risk of injury to fellow soldiers and civilians.
Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant General Ash Power said the ADF deeply regretted any injuries to Afghan civilians and worked hard to limit their occurrence.
"Unfortunately the insurgents continue to disregard the safety and well-being of the Afghan population - launching attacks from within civilian structures and population centres," he said.
"Their decision to attempt an attack on ADF personnel from a built-up area directly lad to this unfortunate incident."
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