More holistic services and more support for military veterans are the main thrusts of the NSW State Government’s official submission to the national Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
Releasing the State’s submission, Premier Dominic Perrottet said it addressed areas where Australia could and should do more for its veterans and their families, particularly contemporary veterans.
Minister for Veterans, David Elliott said the Royal Commission was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all levels of Government, private organisations and charities to come together to end the tragic suicide rates seen in the veteran population.
“While the Commonwealth has primary responsibility for veterans, NSW hosts the largest number of major military bases in Australia,” Mr Elliott said.
“Our submission advances a number of initiatives which would require all affected organisations to provide more holistic services and support to a digger following transition to civilian life,” he said.
“We’ve called for the establishment of additional Veteran Wellbeing Centres like the centre in Nowra; a national peak body to represent the veterans’ community; greater information sharing between the Commonwealth and States; and increased involvement of ex-service organisations like RSL NSW, Soldier On and Mates4Mates in the transition process.”
Mr Elliott said approximately 1,200 veterans transitioned to NSW each year, with the majority settling in the Sydney metro region, and many returning or moving to regional NSW.
The Minister said the State was also calling for a dedicated concierge service for newly discharged veterans, similar to the fast-tracked support that was currently on offer at Services Australia and Service NSW.
The State’s 29-page submission to the Royal Commission can be accessed at this PS News link.
People experiencing distress can contact Lifeline on 131 114 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Veterans can also access 24/7 support from counsellors and staff who understand veteran and military culture from Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling on 1800 011 046.
