Today, we acknowledge the release of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Final Report. The death by suicide of any person is a tragedy - for their family, their friends, their colleagues and their community.
The Royal Commission has provided an opportunity for all of us in Defence to reflect on our policies, processes and practices. The wellbeing, support, and care of our people remains our priority.
It has been sobering to hear of experiences of our current and former personnel, their families and loved ones, particularly where Defence has let people down, and not aligned actions with our values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence.
Defence wholeheartedly acknowledges that the Royal Commission's inquiry has brought into focus issues that need to be addressed within Defence, and the impact these issues have had for our serving and former serving personnel, their families and loved ones, and the broader Defence community.
Defence is supporting the government as they consider their response to the Royal Commission's report and recommendations. Implementing recommendations will require significant reform across Defence - and we are committed to doing better.
Defence has been listening and we will continue the work that has already commenced to improve the experience of personnel based on what we have learned as the Royal Commission has been underway.
Defence is continuing to evolve our culture to prioritise the wellbeing of our people who strive every day to contribute to our common goals and mission. We are delivering programs to address suicide and suicidality, and promote mental health.
We know that there will be current or former serving ADF members, Defence personnel and families who will be impacted by this report. Where the Royal Commission has raised issues that are personally challenging for people in our Defence community, please know that support is available.
Once again, we thank everyone for their significant support and commitment to the important work of the Royal Commission.
