The federal government has released its response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide, accepting 104 out of 122 recommendations, with 17 still under review.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the urgent need to combat the suicide epidemic among veterans and serving members, acknowledging the profound loss of life.

The Royal Commission's findings reveal that former Australian Defence Force (ADF) males are 42% more likely to die by suicide compared to non-veterans, while serving members face a 30% higher risk than civilians.

The report also indicates that former female ADF members have twice the suicide risk compared to their non-military counterparts.

From 1985 to 2022, there were 2,007 confirmed suicides among ADF members, averaging 78 deaths annually from 2011 to 2021, which translates to three suicides every fortnight.

The commission estimates that each suicide affects at least 135 individuals connected to the deceased, underscoring the broader societal impact of these tragedies.

Despite numerous inquiries and awareness efforts, the report notes that suicide rates among ADF members have remained relatively stable over the past 20 years.

While the government's response has been welcomed, many view it as overdue, emphasizing the urgent need for effective action to support those affected.

To address these issues, an agency will be established to reform practices aimed at preventing suicides, alongside another within the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to assist with the transition to civilian life.

Additionally, the government plans to initiate an inquiry into sexual violence within the ADF, with specific terms and timelines yet to be established.

As part of the reforms, members convicted of sexual offenses will be discharged from service, and those disciplined for sexual misconduct will face dismissal based on civil standards.

Defence Minister Richard Marles referred to any suicide within the ADF community as a national tragedy, emphasizing the alarming statistics surrounding veteran suicides.

The Royal Commission's findings also point to bureaucratic indifference that has allowed the suicide crisis to persist unaddressed for two decades.

Over the past decades, Australia has experienced more suicides among soldiers and ex-soldiers than combat-related deaths.