A Royal Commission into the suicide of Defence and military veterans is to be established by the federal Government following consultation with State and Territory Governments.
The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison said the decision had been made after listening to community calls for a national inquiry focusing on the systemic issues faced by Australian Defence Force members and veterans.
“We have always recognised that the rate of suicide of Australian Defence Force members and veterans is unacceptably high,” Mr Morrison said.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Darren Chester said the Royal Commission was another step in efforts to build confidence, trust and hope for current and future veterans and their families that they would be supported.
“This will provide an opportunity for us all to reset, further increase our understanding of this issue, and unite the Parliament, the ex-service community, and the families who have been affected by suicide,” Mr Chester said.
Attorney-General, Senator Michaelia Cash said her Department would provide administrative support to the Royal Commission.
“Our aim for this Royal Commission is that it will shed light on the critical steps we need to take so that we can reduce these heartbreaking cases of suicide,” Senator Cash said.
“Crucially, the Royal Commission will not defer, delay or limit in any way, any proposed or announced policy, legislation or regulation that we are currently implementing.”
Mr Morrison said it was his intention that the Royal Commission and the National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention be established together and operate in a complementary way to achieve long-term change.
“Given the complex issues for consideration, and the importance of hearing from Australian Defence Force members, veterans and their families, the Government envisages that three Commissioners will be needed to lead the inquiry,” Mr Morrison said.
“Consultation is under way to appoint these candidates.”
He said the Royal Commission would be asked to recognise that its inquiries, including its findings and recommendations, would provide a foundation for the future work of the National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention.
