Local veterans and their families, ex-service organisations and other interested stakeholders are being encouraged to provide their input for the Terms of Reference for the Royal Commission into Defence, and Veteran Suicide announced this week.   
 
Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said it was vital that residents involved in the Defence and veteran support system had their say through the Royal Commission.  
 
“Over the coming weeks, a public consultation process is being undertaken to ensure the Royal Commission is focused and based on the experiences and perspectives of those who Defence and veteran suicide have impacted,” Mr Taylor said.  
 
“Any member of the community or any organisation can provide their input regarding the broad themes released earlier this week, and I would encourage them to do so.  
 
“I encourage anyone with thoughts, ideas or experiences to share, to have their say so we can work together towards a better understanding of suicide in the serving and ex-serving community.”  
 
Following consultation, all feedback will be provided to the Attorney-General’s Department, leading to the drafting of the Terms of Reference. Interested individuals, groups, peak bodies, ex-service organisations and community members can review the broad themes for consultation on the DVA website and contribute to the consultation process by emailing royalcommission@dva.gov.au or via post to Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, GPO Box 9998, Brisbane QLD 4001.  
 
For anyone who may find this process difficult, help is available and can make a difference.  
 
Open Arms: Veterans & Families Counselling provides support and counselling to current ADF members, veterans and their families and can be contacted 24/7 on 1800 011 046.  
 
Those who wish to remain anonymous can also contact Safe Zone Support on 1800 142 072. It is a free and anonymous counselling line established for veterans and their families who may have concerns about anonymity.