Tackling a Tragedy: The Government’s Response to Defence and Veteran Suicide
Over the past decade, an average of 78 current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members have died by suicide annually. This harrowing statistic led to the establishment of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide in 2021, an effort to address the systemic challenges behind this national crisis.
In September, the commission released its final report, prompting the Albanese government to respond. Of the 122 recommendations made, the government has agreed, either fully or in principle, to 104, marking a significant step toward reform.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the response as a historic opportunity to deliver enduring support for Defence personnel, veterans, and their families. But what does this response achieve, and where does it fall short?
Mental Health Challenges in the Military
More than 500,000 Australians have served or are currently serving in the ADF. Among active personnel, 22% report experiencing mental health disorders—a figure that increases to 46% for those recently transitioning out of full-time service.
The suicide rate for ex-serving women is more than double that of civilian women. Similarly, men discharged for medical reasons face a suicide risk nearly three times higher than their civilian counterparts. Alarmingly, the number of suicides among ADF personnel over recent decades far exceeds combat-related fatalities.
The reasons for these elevated suicide rates are complex. While deployment trauma is a factor, the royal commission highlighted systemic and cultural issues within the ADF. For instance, excessive “self-reliance,” often celebrated as a military virtue, can hinder help-seeking behaviour when taken to extremes.
Government Commitments
The government’s response includes several significant commitments:
- Co-Design Initiatives: Support programs and guidelines will be developed in collaboration with ex-service organizations, veterans, and their families, ensuring lived experience informs policy.
- Improved Professional Development: Enhanced military cultural competency training for health professionals and better trauma-informed practices aim to address the unique challenges faced by ADF personnel.
- Reducing Administrative Stress: Clearing the Department of Veteran Affairs’ (DVA) claims backlog is a priority, as delays have been a major source of stress for veterans.
- Addressing Military Sexual Violence: Establishing a new inquiry into sexual violence in the ADF reflects a commitment to addressing longstanding issues within the institution.
Missed Opportunities
However, the government has faced criticism for leaving key recommendations unaddressed. Notably, the recommendation to equalize compensation for veterans permanently injured during training with those injured in active service was rejected. This decision may inadvertently devalue the contributions of non-deployed service members, potentially exacerbating identity challenges and mental health issues.
Other key recommendations, such as aligning the DVA’s fee schedule with the National Disability Insurance Scheme to incentivize health-care providers, were deferred for further consideration. This delay could send a mixed message about the value society places on veterans’ care.
The response also lacked immediate commitment to bolstering research funding. While systemic issues require evidence-based solutions, the absence of a strong focus on research risks undermining long-term progress.
The Role of the Taskforce
To address the deferred recommendations, the government has established a taskforce within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. While this signals a high level of attention, questions remain about its leadership, timeline, and accountability.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has emphasized that “Defence’s greatest asset is their people.” However, funding models and timelines must align with this principle to ensure meaningful reform.
Moving Forward
The royal commission has provided a roadmap for addressing the systemic and cultural issues contributing to veteran suicide. While the government’s response demonstrates a strong commitment to many of these recommendations, significant challenges lie ahead.
Implementing lasting reform requires balancing immediate needs with sustainable change and ensuring that the voices of Defence personnel, veterans, and their families remain central. Maintaining focus and accountability will be critical in preventing further tragedy and honouring the sacrifices made by Australia’s service members.
Open Arms – 1800 011 046 – provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF personnel and their families. The Defence all-hours Support Line – 1800 628 036 – is a confidential telephone and online service for ADF members and their families. Lifeline is available on 13 11 14
