Brigadier to give evidence about Defence suicides

Townsville’s most senior Army figure will be the first called to give evidence as the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide begins today.

TOWNSVILLE’S most senior Army figure will be the first called to give evidence as the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide begins today.

Commander of the 3rd Brigade Brigadier Kahlil Fegan told the Bulletin that through his evidence he would provide a first-hand look into military life.

Representatives from the royal commission visited Lavarack Barracks last week and have spent time in Townsville meeting with soldiers, veterans and other stakeholders ahead of hearings.

A Royal Commissions spokeswoman said Brigadier Fegan’s evidence would investigate the systemic risks leading to suicide in the military and would delve into life at Lavarack Barracks.

Brigadier

While on the stand, the commander will be questioned about training, injury prevention, rehabilitation and wellbeing for soldiers posted to Townsville.

The questions will focus on how troops are looked after and what health and support services can they access on the ground.

His evidence will also explore transition and support services at the base and what support is available for service families.

His evidence is expected to span the first day of the nine-day hearing block and stretch into a second day.

Brigadier Fegan said the work of the commission was important.

“I am committed to supporting the work of the royal commission, because anything we can do as an organisation to improve and better support our people, our soldiers, and their families is worthy of investment,” he said.

Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide visits Townsville

“We are a learning organisation and it’s in our nature to strive to do better.”

Last year a report compiled the most accurate data on suicides in the Australian Defence Force found between 2001 and 2019, there were at least 1273 military suicides – more than double what had previously been recorded.

The report said veterans were at a significantly higher risk of taking their own lives compared to serving soldiers, with those forced to discharge on medical grounds most at risk.

Years of campaigning led to then Prime Minister Scott Morrison announcing a royal commission would go ahead in 2021.

A royal commission spokeswoman said the commissioners had conducted 14 private sessions with since arriving in Townsville to identify important local issues ahead of the public hearing.

Royal Commissioners visit Townsville Army base.

The Townsville hearing block will be the first held outside a capital city and the spokeswoman said it was “vital” ahead of the commission’s interim report, which is due in August.

“You don’t have to be a witness at a public hearing to make your voice heard,” the spokeswoman said.
“The commissioners are urging anyone with a story to share to make a submission.

“This is about honouring the service of current and former Defence personnel and acknowledging the impact military life can have on families and loved ones.”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

The royal commission’s hearings are open to the public but will also be livesteamed on the official website.

People wishing to attend in person at the Mercure Hotel are required to register.

The royal commission will publish an interim report by 11 August, which will focus on issues requiring urgent or immediate action.

There will be counsellors on hand at the hearing for anyone who requires assistance.

Veterans are encouraged to contact Open Arms, a free and confidential 24-hour hotline on 1800 011 046.

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Originally published as Brigadier to give evidence about Defence suicides