ANAYLSIS SHEDS LIGHT ON OUR SERVING AND EX-SERVING PERSONNEL

 

Detailed analysis released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) on the ‘Incidence of suicide among serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel 2001-2015’ provides greater understanding to a complex and serious problem.

 

One life lost to suicide is one too many.

 

Suicide is the tragic consequence of overwhelming grief and suffering.

 

When our servicemen and women pledge their lives to serving our country they do so making a personal sacrifice.

 

However, it is clear the amount we ask of them as a country takes a significant toll on their health and wellbeing.

 

We know not all injuries sustained on the battlefield are physical and the data revealed today acknowledges the consequence of these psychological injuries.

 

As previously highlighted from the reports summary in June 2017, veterans are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the Australian community, particularly males aged 18-24 years.

 

Whilst it is unfortunate that such a report was required, the detailed analysis released today by the AIHW, along with continued research, will provide for greater understanding and inform policy makers to provide better support to those who need it.

 

It is important we remember these are not just statistics - they are lives lost; and families and loved ones who continue to suffer.

 

It is our duty as a nation to support these men and women who have served in our name when they return.

We need to support our current serving and ex-service personnel and their families who play a crucial role in supporting these men and women. That is why Labor announced it would develop a Family Engagement and Support Strategy for Defence Personnel and Veterans to provide greater support to our military families.

Labor is committed to working with the Government in providing the best possible mental health support for our veterans.