Unpacking the Royal Commission’s final recommendations
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has closed its doors. In some ways, the work is only just beginning.
By Girard Dorney and Lachlan Haycock
The following helplines are designed specifically for veterans and the family members of veterans:
- Open Arms 24-hour Support Line (1800 011 046)
- Australian Defence Force (ADF) All Hours Support Line (1800 628 036)
- Defence Family Helpline (1800 624 608)
Other general helplines include:
- Lifeline 24/7 Crisis Support (13 11 14)
- Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467)
The final report from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide outlines a roadmap for changing the culture of Defence and reforming the ex-service organisation sector for the better.
“The Royal Commission’s done and dusted; the office doesn’t exist anymore,” says Isaac Ohlin, Head of Veterans Policy and Program Delivery at RSL NSW. “The duty to act has passed on to us now, so we have to be loud in advocating for those in our care.”
The immersive feature linked below outlines the key recommendations of focus for RSL NSW moving forward; how we will continue to prioritise the needs and wellbeing of veterans and families; and how, slowly but surely, there are signs of improvement when it comes to the scourge of Defence and veteran suicide.
