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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Sarah Martin and Josh Butler

Australian veteran compensation scheme contributes to suicide rate, inquiry finds

Suicide Australia ADF Matt Keogh Nick Kaldas Mental Health
The Australian flag is seen on an Australian Defence Force uniform
Most of the royal commission’s recommendations relate to the issue of claim processing times, which have been linked to the incidence of veteran suicide. Photograph: Dave Hunt/AAP

Australia’s veteran compensation scheme is “so complicated” it can contribute to the suicide rate of former members of the Australian defence force, the royal commission into defence and veteran suicide has found.

Urging more resources for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to process a backlog of almost 42,000 veteran claims within two years, the commission’s interim report tabled on Thursday also raises concerns about “cultural issues” within the defence force which may be leading to heightened risk of suicide.

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