Veteran suicide inquiry details expected
Scott Morrison is preparing to announce the terms of reference for a royal commission into veteran suicides.
Nick Kaldas, a former NSW Police deputy commissioner and investigator of chemical weapons used in Syria, is expected to lead the inquiry.
He will be joined by two other commissioners.
The terms of reference are expected to outline an investigation into systemic issues and risk factors relating to veteran suicides, with a focus on what actions can be taken to address the issues.
The royal commission was initially expected to start work in July.
But the process has been delayed by the prime minister's overseas travel and a Nationals leadership spill, which saw Darren Chester dumped as veterans' affairs minister and replaced by Andrew Gee.
The royal commission follows a long-running campaign by former soldiers and pressure from all sides of parliament.
The prime minister spent years pushing back against calls for a royal commission, preferring to establish a permanent agency.
But he was dragged into action after members of his own backbench threatened to cross the floor.
The inquiry will examine all aspects of Australian Defence Force service and the experience of those who transition to civilian life.
It will look at the availability and quality of health and support services as well as issues facing ADF members and veterans including family breakdowns, housing and employment.
Private sessions will be available for witnesses.
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