The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has seen a surge in submissions from veterans and their families during the first public hearing in Brisbane.
The hearing began on Monday, 29 November. Since then:
- Written submissions increased from 630 to 802
- Requests for private sessions to speak with a Commissioner more than doubled, rising from 60 to more than 150.
- Almost half the requests for a private session came from Queensland residents.
Commission Chair Nick Kaldas thanked the participants who shared their experiences and encouraged others to do the same.
“The more people we hear from, right across Australia, the better equipped we’ll be to identify the risks and improve outcomes for veterans and their families,”Commissioner Kaldas said.
“We are indebted to those who have already come forward. Their courage will help others.”
Anyone wishing to make a submission should visit the Royal Commission website.
Help is also available for people who require legal support or counselling.
Applications for private sessions are open for people to speak to a Commissioner in a confidential, private setting.
The hearing at the Brisbane Convention centre is open to the public and runs until Friday, 10 December. It can also be viewed via a livestream on the Royal Commission homepage.
