By Lucy Waldron
The final report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide was released on 9 September, marking what Soldier On describes as a “golden opportunity“ for meaningful reform.
Soldier On, a national charity supporting veterans and their families, sees this as a chance to spare future generations of defence personnel from the hardships faced by their predecessors.
The Royal Commission, chaired by Nick Kaldas APM, with Commissioners The Hon James Douglas KC and Dr Peggy Brown AO, presented the comprehensive report to Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC.
The report, tabled in Federal Parliament the same day, follows three years of inquiry into the alarming rate of suicide among Australia’s Defence and veteran population.
Spanning seven volumes and nine parts, the report delves into the cultural and systemic issues contributing to suicide among serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members.
It includes 122 recommendations aimed at driving long-term reform to better support these individuals.
Soldier On CEO Amy Cooper acknowledged the importance of the report, which she said was made possible by the dedication of the Royal Commission team and the courage of Australians who shared their experiences of trauma, service, and suicide.
“As a national veteran-trusted charity, Soldier On stands ready to work with the government and other stakeholders to implement these vital recommendations,“ Ms Cooper said.
“No amount of work can undo the pain felt by families and communities who have lost loved ones, or the frustration of those failed by an inadequate system.
“However, we can learn from these tragedies and strengthen our capacity to support those who protect our country.“
Soldier On aims to align its mental health, wellbeing, and employment services with the recommendations of the Royal Commission to ensure effective implementation in partnership with the government and other ex-service organisations.
Currently, Soldier On supports nearly 12,000 members of the Australian veteran community, offering mental health services, employment support, educational programs, and activities that strengthen connections with family, friends, and the broader community.
For more information, visit soldieron.org.au
