Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide

On 8 July 2021, following agreement by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), the Government has established a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran suicide. The Royal Commission is independent of Government, including the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, DVA, and the Department of Defence.

The Royal Commission will examine past deaths by suicide, including suspected and attempted suicides, from a systemic perspective. It will consider common themes among Defence and veteran deaths by suicide, including for those with lived experience of suicide behaviour or risk factors. The Royal Commission will be informed by individual experiences of Defence members, veterans, their families and support networks.

The Royal Commission has announced that it will hold its first hearings, commencing with a ‘ceremonial hearing’ or official opening at the Brisbane Convention Centre on Friday 26 November 2021. At the ceremonial hearing, the Commissioners will explain how they will conduct the Royal Commission’s inquiry. The first set of hearings where participants will give evidence to the Royal Commission will commence the following week, from Monday 29 November 2021.

Making a submission

The Royal Commission's website outlines information about the process for the Royal Commission and how to make a submission or contact the Commissioners.

Legal support

DVA has recently been advised of the establishment of the Defence & Veterans Legal Service. This nationwide service will provide free and independent information and legal support to assist Australian Defence Force personnel and veterans, as well as their families, carers and supporters, to safely share their experiences with the Royal Commission. The service began on 1 November 2021. Further detail about these services can also be found on the Service’s website.

Support

We recognise the importance of ensuring that all veterans, especially those who are most vulnerable, and their families, have timely access to appropriate support. Separate to the Royal Commission, veterans and their families can continue to contact Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling for free support and counselling available 24/7, or Safe Zone Support for free support and counselling available 24/7 for those who wish to remain anonymous.

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