Interim National Commissioner Appointed
The Attorney-General, Christian Porter has appointed Dr Bernadette Boss CSC as the interim National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention.
This is the next step in the Federal Government’s efforts to combat suicide in veterans and serving members of the Australian Defence Force.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester has welcomed the announcement.
“The appointment of an interim commissioner is a significant step forward as we work to ensure our personnel and veterans have the help they need, when and where they need it when it comes to their mental health.” Mr Chester said.
While legislation is currently before the Parliament to establish the role permanently, the National Commissioner will begin important work to strengthen our efforts toward suicide prevention, including conducting an independent review of past Defence and veteran suicides.
You can read the full media release from the Minister for Veterans Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel here.
ACT magistrate and coroner, Dr Bernadette Boss, CSC has been named interim National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention.