RSL Australia on LinkedIn: The RSL Royal Commission Working Group, comprised of representatives from… (2024)

Yesterday, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide released its latest report, 'Shining a Light', detailing the lived experiences of the brave individuals who shared their personal stories throughout the Royal Commission.“We are indebted to the courageous individuals who shared their lived experiences to inform the Commission’s work, which will help shape action to reduce the risk of suicide and suicidality across the defence and veteran community,” RSL Australia National President Greg Melick said. The report will be a difficult read for many. We encourage you to take care while reading and ensure you reach out for support should you need it.If you or someone you know needs support or are feeling distressed by the report, please reach out to @Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling on 1800 011 046 or @Lifeline crisis support on 13 11 14.Read the media release: https://lnkd.in/gwwDVjUk

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Members of the RSL Active Strava Clubs find motivation and support from virtually connecting with other veterans. Do you ride/walk/run/row/swim? Join us! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gEqDvrxQ

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RSL Australia provides scholarships for students in theatres where our veterans fought. To recognise the gratitude of 6th Division soldiers for the sacrifices made by Cretans on their behalf during World War II, the RSL Foundation supports two scholarships for Cretan students to undertake tertiary studies.On 25 May, Ambassador Duncan visited Crete to attend the Battle of Crete commemorations at the Hellenic Australian Memorial in Rethymno and to present the scholarships and a donation in honour of Preveli Monastery on behalf of RSL Australia.

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This week, we have been observing Men's Health Week, so it is a good opportunity to re-share this brilliant video series on maintaining health and well-being and building resilience. Not just for men, the All Veterans Wellness Toolbox video series was created by veterans for veterans to provide insights into how you can assess and build your resilience. This video series is FREE and available to everyone, and we encourage you to check it out: https://lnkd.in/giS8ssNe

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The RSL has strongly condemned the desecration of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.Overnight, pro-Palestine graffiti was painted on the Australian War Memorial in the nation’s capital.RSL National President Greg Melick said the desecration of the nation’s sacred place would be deplored by all fair-minded Australians.Read the media release:https://lnkd.in/gYnguUz9

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Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide update: The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide had planned to deliver a special report to the Governor-General in June 2024, detailing a proposal for a new independent implementation entity to follow the Royal Commission. This will now be included as part of the Final Report (to be delivered to the Governor-General on 9 September this year) and will be the centrepiece of the Royal Commission's recommendations. This entity would provide independent oversight - including monitoring the implementation of the Royal Commission’s recommendations - and help to ensure that the prevention of Defence and veteran suicide and suicidality is a paramount consideration for the Government. RSL Australia will continue to strongly advocate that the Government support the establishment of an independent implementation entity and establish a National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Wellbeing to ensure there is a sustained and permanent watch on the health and wellbeing of current and ex-serving ADF members. RSL Australia is also advocating for a national peak body for the ESO sector to represent and advocate for the needs of Australian veterans, their families, and ESO organisations.

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Donations, no matter how big or small, play a vital part in ensuring the continuation of our work supporting past and present servicemen and women and their families. As we near the end of the financial year, we hope you will consider making a gift to the RSL Foundation. All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.https://lnkd.in/gMT2yF6a

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