Solutions Must be Found to Address Veteran and Defence Force Member Suicide
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) says the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide represents an opportunity to address this devastating impact on veterans, serving Defence Force personnel and their families.
RSL Australia President Greg Melick said ex-service organisations, the Government and Australian society must find solutions to minimise Defence and veterans’ suicide, and in doing so, honour the covenant between the Australian people and those who have served and sacrificed so much on their behalf.
RSL Australia reaffirms its support for the Royal Commission and has always sought to engage with whichever process can achieve the best outcomes for Defence members, veterans and their families regarding mental health and suicide.
The RSL welcomes the opportunity to present a detailed submission identifying issues, risks, and opportunities to improve the current landscape for Australia’s Defence Force members and veterans. The submission builds on the contribution of State branches and the interests and input of RSL membership.
The RSL Australia’s submission to the Commission builds on 21 previous inquiries and reports conducted into matters relevant to Defence Force and veteran suicide conducted since 2007 and the more than 335 recommendations from those inquiries that have not been implemented.
Greg Melick said a full review of previous findings, factual data and implementation of past recommendations should be undertaken by the Commission.
“Between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2019, there were 1,273 certified suicide deaths among those with at least one day of ADF service from 1985,” he said.
“Each suicide represents an individual tragedy for the Defence Force member or Veteran involved, as well as for their loved ones.
“The community expectation is that the time to act is now and the Royal Commission must be the catalyst for that action.
As a member-based ex-service organisation, founded on the Australian principle of mateship, empathy and taking care of each other, the RSL is uniquely positioned to take a leadership role in supporting the veteran community.
The RSL’s submission identifies key areas for consideration by the Commission including the governance arrangements from covering legislation to resourcing and funding, coordination of Veterans’ Affairs to provide better outcomes for veterans and targeted mental health programs.
The RSL has increased its support in the field of mental health and would continue to contribute in this area, noting that mental health issues impact on all Australians.
“The RSL is introducing a nationwide awareness program to help veterans and their families understand mental health issues and risks, in conjunction with Open Arms which is Australia’s leading provider of mental support program for veterans and their families.
“It is also leading a national ‘first-of-its-kind’ initiative, with other ex-service organisations to develop a catalogue of programs and services available to Defence members and veterans.
“The RSL has relaunched its national employment program for veterans seeking employment opportunities and this is also available to spouses and partners of transitioning Defence members and veterans.
“We are also expanding our Transition Booth initiative at ADF events to assist Defence Force personnel move into civilian life and have launched nationally a best practice sport and recreational program developed by RSL Victoria called RSL Australia Active.
“As well, State branches and sub-branches continue to offer and manage a variety of programs to support veterans.”
RSL Australia is committed to working with government, the ex-service organisation sector, veterans and their families to coordinate the response needed to minimise risk of suicide and maximise the wellbeing of Australia’s Defence Force members and the veteran community.
“The RSL has the network, the experience, and the expertise to lead the ex-service organisation response to the outcomes of the Royal Commission, and in doing so, help to improve the lives of Australia’s Defence members, veterans and their families.
“RSL Australia’s 150,000 members and its more than 1,150 sub-branches stand ready to offer whatever support and advice that is required.
“The heritage of the RSL Australia-wide – where mates have voluntarily helped mates independently for some 105 years – will continue to be the bedrock of our service and veteran support throughout the Royal Commission process,” Greg Melick said.
SUPPORT Services
ADF Mental Health All-hours Support Line (for current serving ADF personnel and their families) – 1800 628 036
Safe Zone Support (for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families) – 1800 142 072. When you call Safe Zone Support, you do not need to identify yourself.
Open Arms (current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families are able to seek this free and confidential support) – 1800 011 046
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
