Today Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide will be handed to the Governor-General

ED: While the government often makes statements in the media, there is a history of inaction when it comes to fully implementing the outcomes of Royal Commissions. Many times, reports are tabled and promises are made, but substantial follow-through is lacking. Today, the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide will be handed to the Governor-General and is expected to be tabled in Parliament later. Once this happens, the report will be accessible on the Australian Parliament House website.

The Department has stated that it will actively support the Royal Commission’s work and implement its recommendations. However, given past trends with other commissions, it’s uncertain how much of the report’s findings will lead to meaningful change. With extensive media coverage likely, particularly surrounding mental health and suicide, support services are available for the veteran community.

The next steps, as always, will depend on real political will and not just media sound bites.

Ray