Interim appointment of National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention

MEDIA RELEASE

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) says it is pleased the Commonwealth Government has announced the appointment of Dr Bernadette Boss CSC as the new interim National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention.

However, the RSL says although Dr Boss is suitably qualified and the appointment is only interim at this stage, it is disappointed at the Government’s lack of consultation prior to making the appointment.

RSL National President Greg Melick said the RSL had long advocated for the appointment of an independent commissioner to focus on the unacceptable incidence of veteran suicides, as well as general veteran well-being and mental health issues.

“Given that the current appointment is an interim one, we are of the firm view and must assume that the substantive position will not be filled until after a wide-ranging, merit-based selection process.

“The independent commissioner will provide an important level of inquiry and an ongoing ability to provide recommendations to government. This will assist in achieving better outcomes for our veterans.

“It is vital that this long-overdue appointment is, and must be seen to be, truly independent,” Major General Melick said.