Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy Exposure Draft - 2025 public consultation
In December 2024, the Hon Matt Keogh MP, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, launched an Exposure Draft of the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, alongside the Government Response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Final Report.
Public consultation on the Strategy Exposure Draft was held between January and March 2025.
A total of 336 responses were received via an online survey and written submissions from a range of stakeholders including current serving members, veterans and families, ex-service organisations, and other organisations. A Consultation Report summarising the feedback received is available.
When responding to the survey or making a submission, providing identifying data and permission to publish responses was optional. The submissions where permission to publish was granted can be viewed online.
Caution: If you choose to review the submissions, please note some readers may find parts of the content confronting or distressing.
If you or somebody else is at immediate risk call 000.
For less urgent assistance, contact one of the following support services.
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
Provides free 24/7 telephone, online, and video counselling and crisis support to all Australians affected by suicide.
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14
Provides free 24/7 online and phone personal crisis support and suicide
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – 1800 011 046
Open Arms provides mental health and wellbeing support to anyone who has served at least one day of continuous fulltime service in the ADF and their immediate families.
More information on the Final Strategy and Action Plans can be found here: Final Strategy and Action Plans.