The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Final Report has been delivered to the Government and tabled in Parliament today.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, today said the report marks the culmination of the most significant and comprehensive inquiry conducted into suicide and suicidality in the Defence and veteran communities.
“I thank the members of our Defence Force, our veterans and their loved ones who bravely shared their stories with the Royal Commission,” said Mr Marles.
“This has been a thorough inquiry, and we will take the time to carefully consider the recommendations of the Final Report.
“Our priority is ensuring that those who pursue a career in the ADF have a safe and inclusive workplace and are supported from the time they join, through transition, and after service.”
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh described the rate of veteran suicide as “a national tragedy” and said the Royal Commission had played a vital role in learning what can be done better to improve the lives of Defence personnel, veterans and families.
“We’ve acted quickly on the recommendations from the Royal Commission’s Interim Report and I’m pleased that legislation to simplify and harmonise the veteran compensation system is now before the Parliament,” he said.
“I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, sharing their often harrowing stories in the interests of improving things for their mates, and those who will come after them.”
Recommendations from the royal commission were centred on the transition of veterans and families including: simplifying and harmonising the claims system and eliminating the backlog we inherited on coming to government, enhancing access to support services and information access for families of those who have taken their lives, including in the transition of veterans to civilian life.
All serving and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families should know that if they need support they can contact Open Arms for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au.
