The federal government has apologised to Australian veterans and their families for failings in the way the defence forces and veterans affairs department have operated.
One-in-six Australians have experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviours in their lifetime and more than two-in-five have had a mental health disorder.Â
This letter writer argues the government, Defence and DVA have known about the abuse, bullying and sexual assaults and so many other criminal acts for decades but have done nothing to protect those who have done so much to protect them.
A former sailor who endured years of sexual abuse and harassment, plus bullying by her navy bosses, says she felt so "dehumanised" she was too frightened to seek help, even after attempting suicide.
More evidence of lacking support for struggling defence force veterans and their families is due to be presented to a royal commission underway in Canberra.
A royal commission into defence and veteran suicide will launch its latest series of hearings in Canberra just a short distance from the Australian War Memorial which pays tribute to military members who have lost their lives.
A clearer picture of Australian veteran suicides has emerged ahead of the nation's long-awaited royal commission, with new data confirming ex-servicemen and women face a greater risk.
