Lifeline Australia welcomes today’s release of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) latest report on suicide among serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, with Australia’s leading crisis support and suicide prevention organisation reaffirming its unwavering commitment to veterans and families.
The AIHW report, which draws on data spanning 1997 to 2024, reveals that suicide rates among ex-serving men and women remain markedly higher than those seen in the broader Australian community, in spite of a general decline in recent years.
Lifeline Australia’s Head of Research Dr Anna Brooks said that while the findings are preliminary and must be interpreted with care, there are encouraging signs of progress.
“Lifeline Australia recognises the courage, service and sacrifice of Defence members, Veterans and the families who support them. We also acknowledge the unique challenges they can face, including the mental health impacts of military service and the transition to civilian life,” she said.
“The latest data provide grounds for cautious optimism. At the same time, we recognise there is much more to do.”
“Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy, and these data reinforce why our work matters, and why we must continue to push for culturally appropriate, evidence-based support for serving and ex-serving ADF members.”
“Lifeline is proud to be part of Australia’s broader response to Veteran and Defence Families' wellbeing, and we will continue to listen, learn and act,” added Dr Brooks.
GETTING HELP
Lifeline is committed to supporting any Australian through their toughest moments and providing them with the most appropriate care.
If you, or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable.
You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat to Lifeline online (all services are available 24/7). If you’re struggling to know where to turn, Lifeline’s Support Toolkit can help you find the right support at the right time.
FOR INDIGENOUS AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES
If you, or someone you know are feeling worried or no good, we encourage you to connect with 13 YARN [13 92 76] and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
View the full AIHW report here
About us:
For over 60 years, Lifeline has been connecting with Australians, offering free and confidential one-to-one crisis support for people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. Trained Crisis Supporters listen without judgement 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As well as operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 43 Centres around the nation, the organisation also delivers 24/7 crisis text, webchat and a Support Toolkit. Lifeline expects to respond to over 1.5 million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans a day to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe. Visit lifeline.org.au/donate to support Lifeline.
Contact details:
COMMENTARY: [email protected] | 0408 407 376 (NO SMS)
