CONSULTATION OPEN FOR DEFENCE AND VETERAN SUICIDE ROYAL COMMISSION
Veterans and their families, ex-service organisations, states and territories, peak bodies and other interested stakeholders are being encouraged to provide their input for the Terms of Reference for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
Mr O’Brien said it was vital that residents involved in the Defence and Veteran support system had their say through the Royal Commission.
“Over the coming weeks a public consultation process is being undertaken to ensure the Royal Commission is focused and based on the experiences and perspectives of those who have been impacted by Defence and Veteran suicide,” he said.
“Any member of the community or any organisation is able to provide their input regarding the broad themes released on Monday 19 April and I would encourage them to provide their feedback.
“I encourage anyone with thoughts, ideas or experiences to share, to have their say so we can work together towards a better understanding of suicide in the serving and ex-serving community.”
Following consultation, all feedback will be provided to the Attorney-General’s Department which will lead the drafting of the Terms of Reference. Interested individuals, groups, peak bodies, ex-service organisations and community members are able to review the broad themes for consultation on the DVA website and can contribute to the consultation process by emailing royalcommission@dva.gov.au or via post to Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, GPO Box 9998, Brisbane QLD 4001.
For anyone who may find this process difficult, help is available and can make a difference. Current serving members can access support through their local Garrison Health Centre or by contacting the All Hours Support Line available 24/7 on 1800 628 036.
Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling provides support and counselling to current ADF members, veterans and their families and can be contacted 24/7 on 1800 011 046.
For those who wish to remain anonymous can also contact Safe Zone Support on 1800 142 072. This is a free and anonymous counselling line established for veterans and their families who may have concerns about anonymity.