The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) welcomes the Government’s progress in implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
On 2 December, in an update, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon Matt Keogh MP announced that recommendations of the Royal Commission which relate to sexual violence and safety are being implemented by Defence as a priority, and it has taken the following steps:
· Allocated $78 million to establish a Veteran Wellbeing Agency, commencing in July 2026.
· The Australian Human Rights Commission will begin consultations on the terms of reference for an independent inquiry into military sexual violence.
· New mechanisms have been introduced to disclose service convictions.
· Expanded sexual offence data reporting through the Defence Annual Report.
· Finalising the Defence Charter for Military Justice Proceedings and progressing legislative reforms.
· Redeveloping mandatory sexual violence workshops and piloting a Healthy Relationships Program for new recruits.
· Launching the DVA Suicide Prevention Framework and advancing work on new veteran research committee, and
· Working with the Australian Human Rights Commission and Our Watch to develop a sexual violence prevention strategy aligned with the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022–2032.
The Government has also committed to establishing an independent complaints unit in 2026 to support the reporting of unacceptable behaviour, implementing workplace health and safety audit findings, and strengthening research quality and sharing between Defence and DVA.
RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley says RSL Australia welcomes this progress.
“The heart of Australia’s defence capability is its people.
“This is an important step forward in protecting the health and safety of Australian Defence Force personnel, and improving the experience of service for personnel, veterans and their families.
“The RSL has consistently called for the implementation of all recommendations of the Royal Commission, including a more detailed investigation into sexual assault in the military and support for those impacted,” Peter Tinley said.
“My hope is that parents sending their sons and daughters to join the Defence Force will feel confident that their children will receive the best possible support and protection, both in and out of uniform. RSL Australia is committed to playing a vital part in advocating for our service personnel.
“The RSL’s State and Sub-Branches stand ready to assist veterans and their families and refer them to all appropriate support services,” he said.
