DVA’s $9.4 million mental health boost
The department has made a commitment to improve mental health services following the release of a report into suicide in the ex-service community.
The Commonwealth Government is providing an extra $9.4 million to improve mental health services for veterans and ex-service personnel.
The announcement from Veterans’ Affairs Minister Alan Griffin follows the release of an independent study on suicide in the ex-service community, conducted by Melbourne University public health academic, Professor David Dunt.
The study examined general issues surrounding suicide in the ex-service community and a number of specific cases of suicide in the past three years.
Professor Dunt’s final report made a number of recommendations and the government has said it will work with the ex-service community to meet them.
“Changes that will be made include the strengthening of mental health programs, including suicide prevention, and the further simplification of administrative procedures faced by those transitioning out of the Australian Defence Force, or applying for compensation,” said Mr Griffin.
“More experienced case managers will be assigned to support clients with complex needs and DVA will increase access to mental health clinical expertise.”
Professor Dunt’s recommendations focused on making the systems of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs more ‘user friendly’.
“The Government has ensured that funds are available so that Professor Dunt’s programs and initiatives can be implemented in a timely manner,” Mr Griffin said.
