Malarndirri McCarthy (NT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Indigenous Australians) Share this | Hansard source

This government certainly does not disrespect veterans. We thank each and every one of them for giving their evidence throughout the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and thank all those involved in the royal commission. There is no defence in terms of that—Senator Roberts, in particular. There is certainly an acceptance of the importance of this.

In my reference to Senator Lambie's motion, I just want to put this on the table: the government provided the 20-year review to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide to form part of its consideration and final recommendations. I understand this report was provided under a notice to produce to the royal commission by the Commonwealth on a confidential basis. I further understand that the royal commission did not reject this confidentiality claim.

I'm advised the document was published on the royal commission's website in error, which I believe is where Senator Shoebridge has accessed this document. In contravention of the understanding regarding confidentiality, evidence procedures and understood conventions, I'm advised the office of the royal commission removed the document from its website after becoming aware of the error. But it is now public, as I just tabled it prior to Senator Lambie getting to her feet.

Question agreed to.