Hello everyone

After a three-year investigation into the culture, structure and systemic issues in the Australian Defence Force and veteran population, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has released its Final Report.

There are about 17,500 veterans in Tasmania as well as 290 currently serving Defence Force personnel and 670 reserve personnel. Many of us will have friends or family members who are defence personnel or veterans - or are veterans ourselves.

The evidence detailed by the report will be confronting for many and I encourage you to access help and support from your friends, family, colleagues and the Employee Assistance Program.

It is vital that anyone affected by this seeks help as early as possible. Looking after our mental health and wellbeing, and supporting our colleagues to do so, is an important part of the values and culture of the Tasmanian State Service.

I also want to thank those among you who made submissions or gave evidence to the Royal Commission. About 6000 submissions were received, and numerous witnesses detailed sometimes harrowing events. I commend you for speaking up on this significant issue in our community.

You can read the Final Report including a summary and an easy English version at the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide website.

What happens next?

The report includes 122 recommendations for meaningful and long-lasting reform to address these issues, including the establishment of a dedicated agency to provide tailored assistance to defence personnel transitioning to civilian life.

A focus on mental health services and fostering a more supportive culture in the Australian Department of Veterans’ Affairs were also recommendations.

We will also continue to support our veterans through the Tasmanian Veteran’s Employment Strategy which helps veterans transition to civilian employment within the Tasmanian State Service; funding for the Veteran’s Retreat at Dago Point in the central highlands; and consulting with the Veteran’s Reference Group.

The Department of Health is also collaborating with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Open Arms Program on an Australian-only Stress, Resilience and Functions Program.

The Enhancing Mental Health Service Access for Veterans initiative is also underway which enables veterans to be identified in the state-based mental health intake service and connected with Open Arms through an assessment and referral phone service.

Please note, there are a range of Defence support services available, including:

  • The Defence all-hours Support Line is a confidential telephone and online service for ADF members and their families 1800 628 036
  • Open Arms provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families 1800 011 046
  • Soldier On is a national support services provider for Defence personnel, contemporary veterans, and their families. Contact during office hours 1300 620 380

Kind regards