ADF families should be given the support they need

WHILE we often focus on how best to support our defence personnel, it is equally important that their family is not forgotten.

As Australia’s largest garrison city, Townsville deserves the best possible support for all the defence and ex- services community, including families. The recent release of the National Mental Health Commission’s Review of services available to veterans and members of the Australian Defence Force in relation to prevention of self- harm and sui- cide and the evidence provided to the Senate inquiry into veterans’ suicide has highlighted an overwhelming need for family involvement and support.

Support for families is important when looking at a holistic approach, in order to tackle some of the issues which are faced by our serving and ex- service personnel. We know that primary support and care come from the home and our loved ones. However, support to families with loved ones who have previously served in the ADF and are deal- ing with trauma – whether it be mental, physical or both – also need the tools and resources to be able to provide that support.

Evidence from the NMHC’s review recommended a, ‘ strategy and range of initiatives to support families’ and ‘ should also recognise and cater for the diversity of family structures in the ADF and in ex- serving communities’.

We know those families who form part of the ADF community face unique pressures of their own and more often than not are forgotten or not included. It is our duty to ensure that our ADF families are provided with the support they need.

How best to support our ADF families will be a focus for me when I visit Townsville this week along with discussing pressing issues for the defence and ex- service community with local MP Cathy O’Toole.

AMANDA RISHWORTH, Shadow Minister for Defence

Personnel.