Families sharing their stories will be a key part of new national examination of the factors and systemic issues that contribute to veterans and troops taking their own lives.
The government announced in February an ongoing National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention would be appointed to understand what was contributing to suicide risk and what policymakers could do to help. Legislation underpinning it will be introduced to parliament on Thursday.
The veteran community and families have long been calling for the commissioner, with Herbert MP Phil Thompson, an army veteran, a strong advocate within the government. More than 3000 Australians take their own lives each year.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds, Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester, second left, and Liberal MP Phil Thompson, right, announcing the national commissioner to examine veteran suicide in February. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
The legislation will give the commissioner powers equivalent to a Royal Commission, but they will have a continuing remit to examine the issues.
Attorney-General Christian Porter said families would be very important to the commissioner's work.
"The national commissioner will be truly independent and deliver genuine transparency as it helps to uncover the root causes and contributing factors in ADF member and veteran deaths by suicide," he said.
"It will also provide the opportunity for families and those people who have been personally affected by an ADF member or veteran death by suicide to share their story in a safe and supported way."
The government is yet to name the inaugural commissioner but is expected to do so after the four-week consultation on the bill.
If you, or someone you know, need support, you can contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or the Open Arms support service for current and former Defence personnel and families on 1800 011 046.