Suicide Prevention Framework 2025-2031 and Implementation Plan

The Suicide Prevention Framework delivers on a key objective of the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and Suicide Prevention Action Plan, a joint Defence and DVA Strategy designed to improve the wellbeing of Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and veterans. It will also underpin DVA’s dedicated response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

The Suicide Prevention Framework 2025-2031 identifies the gaps and opportunities within the veteran support system to make the biggest impact on preventing veteran suicide, by focusing on three key elements of suicide prevention supports: Prevention, Intervention including Aftercare, and Postvention. 

The three elements of DVA’s suicide prevention model align primarily to the National Suicide Prevention Strategy support domain and demonstrate where there is the most room for improvement. In doing so, the Suicide Prevention Framework highlights how governments, providers, communities and individuals can contribute to intentional and directed efforts in suicide prevention.

The Suicide Prevention Framework draws on the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, lived experience, research and best practice. It provides an informed, intentional and direct approach to suicide prevention for veterans, their families, the veteran community and DVA staff supporting veterans. It was developed in collaboration with veterans, families, carers, health professionals and support organisations, and recognises that suicide is a highly complex issue, with a range of contributing factors at the individual and society level. It reflects the unique challenges faced by the veteran community, serving ADF members and those who support them.

Accompanied by Stage 1 (2025-2027) of an iterative and staged 6-year Implementation Plan, the Suicide Prevention Framework looks at practical ways and opportunities that veteran suicide prevention can be implemented throughout the community and government. The Suicide Prevention Framework will also enable future developments, such as the creation of a new agency focused on veteran wellbeing, to be guided by trauma informed knowledge on suicide prevention.

The Framework and Implementation Plan are intended to be overarching principle-based documents that will drive the Department’s future suicide prevention priorities and initiatives, ensuring a consistent approach to suicide prevention that is based on contemporary evidence.

If you need support, please call:

• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling 1800 011 046
• Safe Zone Support (anonymous counselling) 1800 142 072
• ADF Mental Health All-hours Support Line 1800 628 036
• Defence Family Helpline 1800 624 608
• Lifeline 13 11 14  
• Standby Support After Suicide 1300 727 247
• Sane Australia 1800 187 263

For additional resources:

• Roses in the Ocean
• Suicide Prevention Australia