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Indigenous veterans must be heard by Canberra inquiry
[by Jeremy Boylen]
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Maureen Bates-McKay (left) is an Indigenous woman who works at the Defence and Veterans Legal Service. That service provides free, independent and confidential support to help people tell their stories to the Royal Commission. Image: supplied
A free legal service for veterans is helping First Nations people take part in the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
But you must move quickly if you want to have a yarn with the people conducting this national inquiry.
The Royal Commission is looking at the treatment of Defence Force members and the challenges faced by veterans.
Maureen Bates-McKay (left) is an Indigenous woman who works at the Defence and Veterans Legal Service. That service provides free, independent and confidential support to help people tell their stories to the Royal Commission.
“First Nations people have a proud history of serving in the Defence Force and it’s really important that their stories are heard by this inquiry,” says Ms Bates-McKay.
“There are problems in the military that have to be fixed and this inquiry can help to make those changes – but it must hear from Indigenous veterans about their experiences.
“We can help you create a written submission but you can also have a chat with a Royal Commissioner if you would instead prefer to speak to them in person or by phone.
“If you want to chat to a Royal Commissioner you must lodge a request by Friday 28 April 2023. We can help you to make that request.
“Another deadline is also on the horizon. Submissions to the Royal Commission must be received by October 13 of this year. While that might seem like a distant date, it’s now April and the coming months will race by.
“We help people prepare their submissions and we provide tailored legal advice about issues including privacy, confidentiality and other legal protections. Our support is free, confidential and independent.”
For free and independent legal support anywhere in Australia, call us on 1800 33 1800.
