Royal Commission Report on Defence Suicides Released

The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has released its final report, calling for the creation of a new support body to aid the transition of defence personnel to civilian life, with a focus on compensation, rehabilitation, and suicide prevention. The report criticizes the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) for inadequate support and recommends a new executive agency co-designed with veterans. It also suggests a formal inquiry into sexual violence within the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the establishment of a national register of suicides among current and former ADF personnel. Senator Jacqui Lambie emphasized the need for transparency and full implementation of the recommendations to improve veteran suicide rates. The report acknowledges the complicated and fragmented nature of the current support system, calling for fundamental changes to ensure proactive and adequate support for veterans.