A new independent oversight agency will advise Government on the support needed by Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel in an attempt to improve suicide prevention.
The Federal Government’s response to a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide committed to establishing the new statutory entity to oversee “enduring and systemic reform”.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the entity would provide independent oversight and evidence-based advice to drive better outcomes for serving and ex-serving ADF personnel.
Prime Minister Albanese said an interim head would be appointed as soon as possible to work across government towards the establishment of a legislated oversight body by September, 2025.
He said the Royal Commission heard “harrowing evidence” about the cultural problems within the ADF and identified deficiencies with the approach, services and support of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
“Implementing this response will result in the most comprehensive reform ever undertaken to the culture, systems and processes across Defence, the ADF and DVA to prevent suicide and improve mental health and wellbeing of serving personnel and veterans.”
Prime Minister Albanese said the Government would establish a Taskforce in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and direct DVA to co-design, with the veteran community, a new agency focused on wellbeing, to be established within DVA.
He said this body would be focused on consultation and co-design with Defence and veteran communities, and their families, to ensure the agency met their needs.
The DVA would also be funded to continue consultation on the development of a national ex-service organisation peak body.
“We have lost too many lives, and every single one is heartbreaking. Today I want to acknowledge every family and friend grieving the loss of a loved one.
“Today’s response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission is an historic opportunity to deliver lasting reform and support our Defence personnel, veterans and their families.”
All serving and former ADF personnel and their families can access support through Open Arms for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 1800 011 046 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
