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The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide final report has been delivered to the government and tabled in Parliament.
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The report is an important body of work which marks the culmination of the most significant and comprehensive inquiry conducted into suicide and suicidality in the Defence and veteran communities.
In August 2022, the interim report of the royal commission was delivered to government which took swift action on all of its recommendations.
These recommendations were centred on the transition of veterans and families, including simplifying and harmonising the claims system and eliminating the backlog 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.
Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty and Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston have acknowledged the release of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide final report.
In a message to Defence staff, the leaders said the royal commission had enabled all in Defence to reflect on the department’s policies, processes and practices.
“It has been sobering to hear of experiences of our current and former personnel, their families and loved ones, particularly where Defence has let people down, and not aligned actions with our values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence,” they said.
“The royal commission’s recommendations will require significant reform across Defence and this will require leadership – and we are committed to doing better for our people,” Moriarty and ADML Johnston said.
“Defence is continuing to evolve our culture that prioritises the wellbeing of our people who strive every day to contribute to our common goals and mission. We are committed to prioritising programs that address suicide and suicidality, and promote mental health,” they said.
“Defence is supporting the government as they consider their response.
“Once again, we thank everyone for their commitment to the work of the royal commission.”
The federal government continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the welfare of Defence personnel, veterans and their families. It has been working to deliver this real change every day, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles.
“I thank the members of our Defence Force, our veterans and their loved ones who bravely shared their stories with the royal commission,” Minister Marles said.
“This has been a thorough inquiry, and we will take the time to carefully consider the recommendations of the final report.”
Defence has announced its priority to ensuring that those who pursue a career in the Australian Defence Force have a safe and inclusive workplace and are supported from the time they join, through transition, and after service.
It welcomes the report and thanks the commissioners for a thorough and compassionate inquiry, and thanks the families and veterans who shared their stories with the commission.
“The rate of veteran suicide is a national tragedy and this royal commission has played a vital role in learning what can be done better to improve the lives of Defence personnel, veterans and families,” Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Matt Keogh said.
“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.
“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.”
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
