Making a submission

Please note that submissions to the Defence and Veterans Suicide Royal Commission closed on 13 October 2023. We can still assist you if you have any questions or concerns about a submission you have already lodged with the Royal Commission, you have booked a private session or you have been asked to be a witness at a public hearing.

What is a submission?

The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide asked to hear from Australian Defence Force personnel and veterans, as well as their families, carers and supporters, so it can tell the government how to prevent future deaths by suicide.

Before submissions closed on 13 October 2023, a submission was one way for you to share your experiences with the Royal Commission and:

  • could be about your experiences or another person’s
  • could include your ideas and recommendations for change
  • could be as short or as long as you needed it to be to share your experiences
  • you could make one or many submissions.

The Defence and Veterans Legal Service provided free, independent legal support and advice to prepare submissions. We continue to provide free legal support for defence members, veterans and their families who are involved with Royal Commission private sessions and public hearings.

How can I make a submission?

Submissions closed on 13 October 2023.

You can view public submissions on the Royal Commission’s website

The Royal Commission is due to deliver its final report with recommendations by 9 September 2024. 

If you have any questions about a submission you have already lodged, please call us on 1800 33 1800 (free call) Monday to Friday or go to our contact us page for other ways to reach us. We can also connect you with other services, such as counselling, advocacy, and other legal support not related to the Royal Commission. 

Need more information?

Call 1800 33 1800 (free call) Monday to Friday or go to our contact us page for other ways to reach us. You can also visit the Defence and Veterans Royal Commission’s website.

Last updated 7 March 2024