Defence Legislation Amendment (RCDVS Implementation and Related Measures No. 2) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Opened the debate

Keogh argued that the bill implements 15 recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and supports a further 20 recommendations. Keogh stated that the legislation strengthens health and wellbeing outcomes by improving information sharing between Defence and the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Keogh explained that the bill establishes clear statutory authority for data collection while maintaining strong privacy safeguards. Keogh noted that the reforms aim to reduce harm and support families by enabling earlier intervention for those at risk.

Government response

Keogh detailed five schedules in the bill, including provisions for information sharing to improve wellbeing outcomes and modernising Defence health services. Keogh explained that Schedule 1 addresses systemic deficiencies in data integration by enabling lawful information sharing for health and safety purposes. Keogh stated that Schedule 2 clarifies the legislative framework for Defence health services to align with national clinical governance standards. Keogh noted that Schedule 3 strengthens support for Defence families, particularly regarding family and domestic violence. Keogh added that Schedule 4 ensures individuals imprisoned for serious violence or sexual offences cannot serve in the Defence Force.