Veterans get some help at long last

DEFENCE Force personnel and veterans are one step closer to answers today as Herbert MP Phillip Thompson introduces a National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide motion to parliament.

The motion has been signed by former Australian Army colonel and recently retired Eden-monaro MP Mike Kelly.

While it’s not unheard of, it’s extremely uncommon for a Coalition and a Labor member to join forces like this.

But according to Mr Thompson, Dr Kelly knew how important this motion was for the defence community.

It’s a victory of sorts for the families of Australia’s fallen defence personnel who have been campaigning for a royal commission for years.

The commissioner will have the same powers as a standing royal commission, but it will look forward and act as a permanent and ongoing watchdog to help reduce and examine military suicide issues.

But the National Commissioner’s role will not stop there, each year it will deliver a report to parliament and have the responsibility to monitor the implementation of recommendations.

With a strong military presence in the Townsville community, the community has long cried out for more support for its men and women who serve.

While there has been some who are still pushing for a royal commission, Mr Thompson said this plan was developed after speaking with many family members of defence personnel and veterans.

While the plan may not solve all the problems with veteran and defence personnel suicide, it will help the country take steps to support its serving men and women when they need it.

Like many people in the community, Mr Thompson is sick of losing his mates and is desperate to do something about it.

Mr Thompson will introduce the motion into parliament this afternoon.