Review of Mental Health in the Australian Defence Force and Transition Through Discharge

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon Warren Snowdon MP, and the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, the Hon Alan Griffin MP, have initiated a review of mental health and care in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and transition to non-military life.

The review is to independently assess and benchmark, from a mental health best practice and administrative perspective, the current models of mental health support in the ADF, and the mechanisms of transition of those medically discharged with a mental health condition from the ADF to the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). The review is to consider the extent to which the mental health needs of serving and transitioning ADF members are being met. It is expected that the review will take approximately six months to complete with a report due to Ministers by 15 December 2008.

Professor David Dunt has been appointed to conduct the review. Professor Dunt is a Public Health specialist and epidemiologist with major interests in health services research and health program evaluation.

Professor Dunt will be visiting a variety of Defence establishments to talk to sailors, soldiers and airmen in an informal setting in August 2008. He will also take the opportunity to meet commanders and local members of the ADF regional mental health teams.

Professor Dunt is also seeking written submissions from Defence members, veterans and members of the public over the next two months. Submissions close 20 September 2008. All responses will be confidential and will only be accessed by Professor Dunt.

Submissions Address

Submissions should be forwarded by:

Email: MentalHealth.Review@defence.gov.au

Post: Melbourne University Post Shop, PO Box 4285, Melbourne University VIC 3052

Terms of Reference

Prof David Dunt Biography

24 September, 2008