IN RESPONSE to the Australian Government on the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide

We at Inverloch RSL extend our sincere appreciation for the Australian Government’s comprehensive response to the final report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The decision to agree with 104 out of the 122 recommendations is a commendable step towards addressing the critical issues faced by our Defence personnel and veterans.

We suggest that RSL Victoria seeks explicit indications on the timelines for the implementation of the ‘Agree-in-Principle’ recommendations; it is essential to understand the specific commitments and actions that will be undertaken to implement these recommendations. Clear timelines and detailed plans are crucial to ensure that these vital reforms are effectively executed.

Additionally, it may be prudent to seek similar clarifications from the Federal Opposition to understand their stance and planned actions regarding these recommendations. This approach would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the bipartisan commitment to addressing these important issues. 

I acknowledge that Government may go into caretaker mode at some time in the new year. I do point out though that veteran suicides do not.

Lindsay Guerin, Secretary, Inverloch RSL