Media Statement: RSL NSW will support a Royal Commission

RSL NSW State President Ray James has today reiterated that the State’s leading ex-service organisation will support the Federal Government if it proceeds with a Royal Commission into veteran suicide.

Mr James said that regardless of the outcome of the motion today the implementation of the recommendations of the 2019 Productivity Commission Inquiry Report: ‘A Better Way to Support Veterans’, and any other veteran-related inquiry, is a matter of urgency for the Government.

“Any recommendation that is made as a result of a Royal Commission into veteran suicide will be welcomed but this will take time and immediate action needs to be taken to support veteran wellbeing.

“Facilitating rapid and ongoing access to services and support, camaraderie, and commemoration for veterans remains the highest priority for RSL NSW.”

Since 2019, RSL NSW and its partner charities RSL LifeCare and RSL DefenceCare have secured a Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre for Nowra, placed a Liaison Officer at the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare at Concord, and established the RSL Employment Program.

RSL DefenceCare provides financial, disaster, and accommodation assistance, counselling, and Department of Veterans’ Affairs claims support to all veterans and their families.