RSLWA MEDIA RELEASE: War Crimes Allegations

THE wellbeing, welfare and mental health of veterans who served in Afghanistan is a top priority for RSLWA, following the referral of 36 incidents of alleged war crimes to the Australian Federal Police for investigation.

RSLWA views the allegations as extremely serious and speculation has already impacted adversely on veterans who served in Afghanistan and not involved in the alleged incidents.

RSLWA Chief Executive Officer, John McCourt, said RSLWA has prepared itself to provide as much support as possible to veterans and their families as well as serving personnel of the Australian Defence Force.

“Many of our Veterans served in unique and highly challenging environments and the allegations and resulting inquiry has caused considerable distress and mental health concerns,” Mr McCourt said.

“A vast majority of special forces are not implicated and we need to be mindful that many of our veterans and serving personnel served with dignity and honour overseas in conflicts.”

RSLWA is committed to supporting all serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force through the provision of welfare and general support for them and their families.

A vast majority of special forces are not implicated and served with dignity and honour overseas. Photo: Defence Australia