THE HON ANDREW HASTIE MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRY
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL

THE HON BARNABY JOYCE MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR VETERANS’ AFFAIRS

PHILLIP THOMPSON OAM MP
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRY
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL

JOINT STATEMENT
GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSE TO THE FINAL REPORT OF THE ROYAL COMMISSION INTO DEFENCE AND VETERAN SUICIDE

Monday 2 December 2024

The Coalition acknowledges the Government’s response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Today will be a hard day for many current and former Australian Defence Force personnel and their families, as another step is taken towards making systematic change for our defence and veteran community.

In particular, we note the initial steps announced towards the establishment of a new statutory body to provide independent advice and oversee systematic reform, as recommended by the Royal Commission.

While appointing an interim head is a start, the Albanese Government must work at best speed to commence public consultation and any legislation required to ensure this new body is implemented expeditiously.

It is hoped this, as well as the other accepted recommendations will go far in caring for the physical and mental health of the brave men and women who serve our nation with honour and bravery.

In 2021, the former Coalition Government announced the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and has continued to provide support to the Government as the Interim Report and Final Report were released.

The Coalition remains committed to working with the Federal Government to address suicide among the Australian Defence Force and veteran community, and will thoroughly review the Government’s response.

[ENDS]