UPDATE: One year after the release of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, the Australian government is taking urgent steps to overhaul its “toxic, broken” Defence system. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh is set to address parliament today, revealing significant developments aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of Defence members and veterans.
This announcement comes as the government confirms it has committed to or agreed in principle to 104 recommendations made by the Royal Commission, with nine recommendations already implemented. An additional 110 recommendations are currently being worked on. The swift establishment of the Defence and Veterans’ Service Commission within three months of the government’s response reflects a decisive action plan that is set to launch by the end of this month.
Key initiatives include the rollout of the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which will be unveiled today alongside a new AI-driven website designed to assist veterans in accessing crucial support. Recruitment for a commissioner is underway, with operational funding secured over the next four years to ensure lasting impact.
The government is also implementing a Women Veterans Strategy and developing a comprehensive brain injury program to address the specific needs of veterans. Notably, mental health and suicide awareness training has already reached 67,300 ADF personnel, marking a significant commitment to improving support.
Keogh emphasized the critical importance of these changes, stating, “They should be safe in the knowledge that whatever may befall them in service, they and their families will be properly looked after.” This sentiment underscores a broader commitment to ensuring that families of service members receive the support they deserve throughout their defence journey.
In a move to address military sexual conduct, the government has updated policies and provided clear guidance for leaders on when to engage the Joint Military Police Unit. An interim directive has been issued to suspend or involuntarily separate ADF members accused of serious misconduct. Additionally, a taskforce is set to conduct independent research into the prevalence of military sexual trauma, highlighting the urgent need for reform in this area.
An independent inquiry is also underway to investigate the potential misuse of the military administrative system against ADF members. The government is consulting on the introduction of mandatory mental health considerations during the involuntary separation process, a critical step in safeguarding the wellbeing of service members.
As Minister Keogh prepares to deliver his address, he is expected to reiterate the government’s commitment to empowering and supporting the mental health of the Defence and veteran community. He acknowledges that “for too long, this was not the reality,” as the Royal Commission highlighted systemic failures that left many current and former Defence personnel without adequate support.
These developments are crucial as Australia moves towards creating a Defence system that prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of its service members. The government’s proactive measures reflect a significant shift towards accountability and support, ensuring that those who serve the nation can do so with confidence.
Stay tuned for updates as Minister Keogh addresses parliament later today. This is a pivotal moment for Defence reform in Australia, and the implications for veterans and their families will be profound.
