It has been 12 months since the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide began its work.
Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell said it was important the Royal Commission had a deep and thorough understanding of modern service life.
“By knowing the challenges ADF members and their family face, and by understanding which support systems work and which need improving, the Royal Commission can understand how best to recommend positive change,” General Campbell said.
In a video message, General Campbell encouraged people with experiences or information that might help the Royal Commission to make a submission.
“Experience need not directly involve suicide or suicidality, it might be information about service life, trauma, health and wellbeing or family support,” General Campbell said.
There are protections in place that allow people to speak openly with the Royal Commission.
The Royal Commission may raise issues that are personally challenging for some in our Defence community. Defence members and their families are encouraged to reach out if you need support:
- Lifeline – 24/7 on 13 11 14. Their nightly text line can also be reached at 0477 13 11 14
- Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – 24/7 on 1800 011 046
- Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) – 24/7 on 1800 628 036
- Defence Member and Family Support – 24/7 on 1800 624 608
- ADF Chaplaincy, Religious and Spiritual Services – 24/7 on 1300 333 362
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – 1300 687 327 / +61 3 8620 5300 (International)
- Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response Office – 24/7 on 1800 SEMPRO (1800 736 776) / +61 2 6127 1759 (International)
If life is in danger, please call 000.
You can find more information about the Royal Commission on their website.
