Pro Patria Centre Sees Opportunity in the Tabling of the Final Report from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide
The Pro Patria Centre recognises the tabling of the final report from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide as not only a significant moment but also a time of opportunity.
We believe this is a crucial chance to unite individuals and organisations in our efforts to get the Veteran support sector on track to better serve our veterans and their families.
This emotional time for many in our community highlights the importance of collective action. Over the past three years, Pro Patria Centre has actively engaged in this pivotal process, making a detailed submission and supporting individuals as they prepared their personal testimonies. We were honoured to host Commissioners and Royal Commission staff at our Centre during the hearings in Wagga Wagga in 2023, allowing for frank and open discussions on the issues and solutions we are committed to addressing.
While the journey has been intense, we acknowledge that the real work begins now. The healing process started with veterans and families courageously sharing their stories, and it is time for meaningful action to take place. The 122 recommendations outlined in the report provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reform the Veteran Support Sector, transforming it into a genuinely holistic system that meets the needs of veterans and their families today and into the future.
At Pro Patria Centre, we are dedicated to thoroughly reviewing the seven volumes and 122 recommendations, and we will respond publicly to our community, outlining our collaborative path forward in implementing these essential changes. Over the past 3 years, Pro Patria Centre has been bringing care and services to veterans in the region. The Royal Commission includes clear recommendations about these services in the final report.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Commissioners and the staff of the Royal Commission for their dedication and compassionate treatment of veterans and their families throughout this process. Your efforts have illuminated the challenges faced by our community and have laid the groundwork for the much-needed reforms.
We recognise that this is a significant and potentially distressing point in time for many of us. If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed or in need of support, we implore you to reach out to the following services:
Emergency Services – 000
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Suicide Call back – 1300 659 467
Domestic Violence Line (24hrs) – 1800 65 64 63
Open Arms Veterans and Family Counselling - 1800 011 046
Safe Zone Support - 1800 142 072
Safe Haven Address: 7 Yathong Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650
Hours
Monday: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Tuesday: closed
Wednesday: closed
Thursday: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Saturday: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Phone: +61 497 422 937
Together, we can harness this transformative period to unite our efforts and ensure that the voices of our veterans and their families guide us toward a brighter and more supportive future.
For further information, please contact:
Jacqui Van de Velde
Board Director
Pro Patria Centre
0413301088
jacqui.vandevelde@propatria.com.au
www.propatria.com.au
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