In a video message, Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell encouraged people with experiences or information that might help the Royal Commission to make a submission.
Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell, AO, DSC. Photo by Nicole Mankowski.
General Campbell said it was important the Royal Commission had a deep and thorough understanding of modern service life.
“By knowing the challenges ADF members and their family face, and by understanding which support systems work and which need improving, the Royal Commission can understand how best to recommend positive change,” General Campbell said.
“Experience need not directly involve suicide or suicidality, it might be information about service life, trauma, health and wellbeing or family support,” General Campbell said.
There are protections in place that allow people to speak openly with the Royal Commission.
The Royal Commission may raise issues that are personally challenging for some in our Defence community. Defence members and their families are encouraged to reach out if you need support:
If life is in danger, please call 000.
Free legal support to engage is available from the Defence and Veterans Legal Service (DAVLS). This advice is confidential and independent from the ADF, DVA and the Royal Commission. Getting advice from DAVLS does not commit you to take action, but helps Defence members and their famiilies make informed choices about if and how to engage. To organise support, call 1800 33 1800.