BREAKING: The Australian government is set to unveil key reforms aimed at addressing a staggering crisis among military personnel as Defence Minister Matt Keogh prepares to address the National Press Club in Canberra on Tuesday, marking the first anniversary of the government’s response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. This urgent update follows a shocking report that revealed 1,677 serving and former defence personnel took their own lives between 1997 and 2021—a figure over 20 times greater than those killed in active duty.
The government has acknowledged the overwhelming majority of the 122 recommendations from the royal commission, but an update in September revealed that only nine have been fully implemented, with work ongoing for another 110. In a significant development, Minister Keogh will announce a standalone inquiry into military sexual violence, a critical recommendation from the royal commission. This inquiry will examine the existing barriers within the Australian Defence Force to effectively investigate sexual assault claims and assess the military justice system’s performance.
This inquiry is expected to commence next year and aims to conclude within 12 months, culminating in a comprehensive report on military sexual violence. The announcement coincides with a pivotal day in court for a class action lawsuit filed by a group of women alleging systemic sexual abuse within the military. The identities of the four applicants remain confidential due to legal protections, but any woman who experienced sexual violence, harassment, or discrimination while serving in the military from November 12, 2003, to May 25, 2025, is eligible to join this landmark legal effort.
The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated. The royal commission’s findings underscored the necessity for significant changes, including the removal of troops convicted of sexual crimes from military ranks and enhanced support for victim-survivors. As Minister Keogh gears up to deliver this critical information, the implications for veterans and active personnel remain profound.
Stay tuned for updates as we bring you live coverage of Minister Keogh’s address and the ongoing legal battles that could reshape the future of the Australian Defence Force. The time for change is now.
