OTA statement on the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide

Published: Tuesday 10 September 2024

OTA welcomes the recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, especially those that will make it quicker and easier for veterans to access vital heath supports. 

Every life lost to suicide is a preventable tragedy and more must be done to address the risk factors within Australia’s armed services, including improvements to ensure safe quality help is available for those who need it. 

OTA made a submission to the Commission, calling for improvements to reduce current barriers that prevent veterans from receiving timely and high-quality care, for both physical disability and mental illness. 

OTA particularly welcomes Recommendation 71 of the Final Report which urges an increase to DVA fee rates, which are substantially lower than those of other government schemes including the NDIS, and mean many providers cannot afford to offer services to veterans. 

OTA is also pleased the Commission has called for a renewed focus on expanded and stronger healthcare services for veterans, and a review of the Open Arms program to ensure it is delivering high quality and best practice services. 

The Royal Commission’s Final Report contains seven volumes and 122 recommendations. A significant number of recommendations seek to drive leadership and cultural improvement within the armed services, reduce the factors that impact psychosocial stress during all stages of the military experience from recruitment through overseas postings and transition to civilian life, and promote access to mental health and wellbeing for those who need it. OTA was one of more than 6,000 organisations and individuals who made submissions during the course of the Commission. 

The Commission has also recommended a new entity to oversee veteran and military personnel wellbeing, and greater independence in the Office of the Inspector General of the ADF. They have also called for better data collection, research into veteran health needs, and better integration with Comcare to improve systems to address psychosocial risks. 

Read the full report here.