Government releases response to Royal Commission Interim Report
On 11 August 2022 the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide released its Interim Report, which provided 13 recommendations to the Australian Government. The Government undertook to respond to the report as a priority.
Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh, released and tabled in Parliament the Government’s response to the report on 26 September 2022.
In an address to the Parliament, Minister Keogh outlined that the Government had implemented one of the recommendations already, agreed to nine, agreed to one in principle, and noted two others. The Government’s response is available on the DVA website.
DVA is committed to implementing the recommendations in line with the Government’s response and will continue supporting the Royal Commission. There has already been significant progress made in relation to a number of the recommendations. This includes the commitment of an additional 500 staff for DVA to assist with eliminating the current backlog of claims at the department.
Since the Royal Commission was established on 8 July 2021, evidence has been heard from witnesses with lived experience of Defence and veteran suicide, witnesses with specialist expertise, ex-service organisations and charities, as well as Commonwealth witnesses, include those from DVA and Defence.
The Royal Commission has stated it is interested in hearing from people with a variety of lived experiences, whether currently serving, veterans or family members, friends or support people. Every story is valuable and informs the inquiry.
There is still time to contribute to the Royal Commission. Submissions will remain open until 13 October 2023. Submissions can be made anonymously.
DVA understands this is a difficult time for many. All veterans and families can contact Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling for free support and counselling (available 24/7 on 1800 011 046). Those who wish to remain anonymous, can contact Safe Zone Support on 1800 142 072.
Making a submission
You can make a submission online via the ‘Make a submission’ link on the home page of the Royal Commission’s website, or by calling 1800 329 095 to request a mailed submission form.
The website also outlines information about the process for the Royal Commission and how to contact the Commissioners.
Legal support
The Defence & Veterans Legal Service has been established to support Defence personnel and veterans during the Royal Commission. This nationwide service provides 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.