ROYAL COMMISSION INTO VETERAN SUICIDES
Scott Morrison has announced a royal commission into veteran suicides
* Draft terms of reference released on Monday, open for public comment for four weeks
* The prime minister expects the inquiry to be established by July and run for several years
* It will examine all aspects of service in the Australian Defence Force and the experience of those transitioning from active service
* The inquiry will look at the availability and quality of health and support services; pre-service and post-service issues for members and veterans; family breakdown; housing and employment issues
* Support for the inquiry will be needed from state and territory governments
* Private sessions will be available for witnesses
* Inquiry will have full range of compulsory powers, including the ability to compel witnesses
* Laws before the federal parliament will be amended to ensure the inquiry is linked to a permanent national commission.
Australian Associated Press