Ipswich military families will receive a higher level of support of support and care following the announcement that a Shorten Labor Government will develop a Family Engagement and Support Strategy for Defence Personnel and Veterans.

Labor’s commitment would implement a key recommendation on the National Mental Health Commissions’ review  into Services Available to Veterans and Current Serving Members of the Australian Defence Force in Relation to the Prevention of Self-harm and Suicide to develop a strategy and provide greater support and resources to military families.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann MP said that would mean more support for Ipswich Defence Personnel and their families.

“Ipswich has a long and proud history with the Australian Defence Force.

“There are currently 5500 Defence Personnel stationed at RAAF Base Amberley, while Ipswich is home to veterans and ex-service members from a number of different conflicts.

“It’s on us in Government to ensure we’re doing all we can to recognise and support them.

“Greater support for ADF families means greater support for ADF members and veterans.

“Labor’s Family Engagement Strategy will be co-designed with defence and veteran families and communities, to focus on known stress points for families, including transition for Defence members into civilian life.

Mr Neumann said that the strategy would acknowledge the critical role that families play in the lives of current and former serving members.

“Whether it’s while in service in transition, and in civilian life, when our serving and ex-service personnel require support it’s their families they look to.

“This is particularly the case for those members and veterans experiencing mental health issues, or rehabilitating from injury.

“We’re committed to providing the support and resources to help them meet the unique challenges of military family life.”