For nearly three years, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has investigated and examined pressing issues impacting the mental health and well-being of Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families. Starting on 8 July 2021 and concluding its submissions phase on 13 October 2023, this inquiry represents a critical effort to address the high rates of suicide within the defence community. The final report is due on 9 September 2024.
Scope and Findings of the Royal Commission
The Commission has received contributions and heard evidence from across Australia, including over 5,889 written submissions, 886 private sessions, and 12 public hearings. These contributions have helped to expose the complex and often distressing experiences faced by personnel and their families.
Key Insights from the Interim Report
The interim report, delivered on 11 August 2022 by Commissioners Nick Kaldas APM (Chair), The Hon James Douglas KC, and Dr. Peggy Brown AO, highlighted several critical issues:
Role of Defence Families: The Commission recognised the crucial role that defence families play in supporting ADF members, noting that ADF personnel are more effective and stay in service longer when their families are well-supported, yet the pressures faced by these families are significant.
Cultural and Systemic Issues: It was noted that the high suicide rates have been contributed to by cultural and structural problems within the ADF, including instances of abuse, contribute to the high suicide rates. The report called for substantial cultural reforms within the ADF.
Transition Challenges: The transition from military to civilian life is a particularly vulnerable time for veterans, and the risk of suicide is higher risk during this period. The Commission criticised the slow progress of the Joint Transition Authority and urged for improvements to be made to support mechanisms.
Compensation and Rehabilitation Systems: The veteran compensation and rehabilitation systems were identified as being extremely complex and these complexities often worsened existing mental health issues. The report recommended urgent legislative reform to simplify these processes.
Claims Processing Delays: It was hlghlighted that the backlog of over 41,799 claims at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) was contributing to veterans’ mental health struggles. The report recommended clearing this backlog and improving the efficiency of claims processing .
Legal Protections and Information Access: Insufficient legal protections for those sharing their experiences with the Royal Commission were noted. The report called for legislative amendments to ensure confidentiality and it highlighted barriers in accessing critical information from Defence and the DVA.
Support for Families: The report emphasised the need for a more structured support system for families, recognising their vital role in the well-being of ADF members.
Looking Ahead
As we approach the release of the final report on 9 September 2024, the Royal Commission has suggested establishing a permanent entity to oversee and monitor the implementation of its recommendations and ensure ongoing focus on mental health issues within the ADF community.
At Donaldson Law, we eagerly await the final report and will continue to keep our audience updated on the findings and their implications.