LGBTIQ+ Health Australia (LHA), the national peak body for LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing, welcomes the Australian Government's commitment to formally apologise to LGBTIQA+ Defence personnel and veterans who experienced discrimination under historical military policies. 

The announcement represents an important step towards recognising the lasting health impacts experienced by LGBTIQA+ veterans who were excluded, investigated, discharged or forced to conceal their sexual orientation and/or gender. 

LHA CEO Nicky Bath said the apology recognises both the injustice experienced by LGBTIQA+ veterans and the lasting impacts on their health and wellbeing. 

"For many LGBTIQA+ veterans, the impacts of discrimination have been carried for decades resulting in poorer mental health, social isolation and, for some, experiences of suicidality. A national apology is a powerful acknowledgement of these harms and validates these experiences," said Bath. 

Evidence presented to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlighted the enduring mental health impacts of discrimination, forced discharge, loss of career pathways and institutional betrayal experienced by LGBTIQA+ personnel and veterans. 

"The Royal Commission reminded us that suicide prevention requires addressing the systems, cultures and policies that create harm. For LGBTIQA+ veterans, historical discrimination and exclusion have been part of that story.” 

"Recognition of past wrongs is an important component of healing. This process also requires ongoing access to culturally safe mental health supports, peer connection, trauma-informed care and services that understand the unique experiences of LGBTIQA+ veterans,” said Bath.  

The findings of the Royal Commission underscore the importance of implementing the National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People 2025-2035, which provides a clear framework for improving health and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTIQA+ communities, including veterans, through investment in community-led services, workforce capability, research and culturally safe care. 

"We hope this moment contributes to a future where all veterans, including LGBTIQA+ veterans, are treated with the respect, support and dignity they deserve," Bath said.  

LHA acknowledges and congratulates the veterans, advocates and organisations whose evidence, advocacy and persistence over many years, including through the Royal Commission and other inquiries, helped secure this important recognition. 

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