In the lead-up to Anzac Day, RSL NSW is asking people what they think the next Government should be doing to better support the Defence and Veteran community.
“We’ve written to political parties and candidates requesting support in five key priority areas that will make a big difference in the health and wellbeing of our current and former serving ADF personnel and their families.”
The veterans body is requesting:
An enduring commitment to implement in full the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. This would include an independent Commission to continually watch over veteran health and wellbeing, with the establishment of a new, focused executive agency and establishment of a new national peak body to provide oversight and ensure veterans voices are heard.
Improved access to quality fee-free advocacy, increasing the number of quality, fee-free veteran advocates to meet demand, and better training and coordination.
Improved access to healthcare for veterans and their families, through a review and upgrade of the DVA fee schedule.
Sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), to safeguard the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families.
Boost Australia’s Defence Capability through investment in a ‘balanced force’, which includes strengthening Australia’s traditional national security links and investing the country’s self-reliance.
Several of these proposals stem from a report by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which revealed the tragic statistic of more than 1,677 ADF member suicides between 1997 and 2021.
“This is a national crisis that needs to be addressed urgently,” says member Peter Rudland.
“I’d like to see all political candidates commit to implementing all 122 recommendations of the Royal Commission’s final report.
“We all must remember that a government’s commitment to serving soldiers and veterans is a reflection of its appreciation.”
Greg Melick, RSL National President, went further to place responsibility on the next administration to build on what has been done to date.
“The RSL asks the incoming government to build upon the foundation laid by the outgoing government and work of the Royal Commission to address the devastating issue of veteran suicide.
We stand ready to work with government to drive real, long-lasting, meaningful change that delivers improved health and wellbeing outcomes for current and former serving ADF members, and their families.”
