The defence and veteran suicide commission’s most important recommendation for an independent watchdog has been been delayed.
On June 12, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide announced it would not be able to meet its June deadline to release plans for a powerful oversight body that will hold the government accountable for reform.
- In short: The Royal Commission’s most important recommendation for an independent watchdog has been delayed.
- The process is taking longer than expected because of how long it is taking to ensure the plans are practical and legally sound.
- What’s next? The commission will release the plans with the final report for the Governor-General on September 9.
The body was one of 13 recommendations requiring urgent action following the commission.
“This new entity would provide independent oversight – including monitoring the implementation of the Royal Commission’s recommendations,” the commission said.
“And begin to restore trust in the systems that have failed serving and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families.”
The Australian Government has tabled responses to fewer than 57 of the previous inquiries or reports, highlighting the need for an independent body.
A detailed plan for the body was expedited for release in a special report to the Governor-General by the end of June.
In a statement, the Royal Commission said it needs more time to finalise the legal side of the proposal to avoid unintended consequences.
“We’re working towards the final report and working with the Commonwealth to ensure what we recommend is practical and legally sound,” the commission said.
“That process is taking longer than expected, and we will aim to deliver a report around the new entity as part of our final report in September.”
The new date has been set for September 9.