Penny McKay Eyes Long-Term Change in Australia's Defence Landscape

Penny McKay, the inaugural commissioner of the Defence and Veterans' Service Commission (DVSC), has set her sights on substantial and lasting reforms within Australia's defence force. Her commitment comes in the wake of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which highlighted alarming rates of self-harm among veterans and active personnel as a national crisis.

Speaking to ABC, McKay emphasized the importance of transparency in her role, asserting that the DVSC aims to illuminate the issues within Defence and the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). "Change might not happen overnight. But we will be here for the long haul," she stated, indicating her determination to address the systemic failures that have long plagued the military.

Her appointment follows the Royal Commission's call for an independent authority to enhance suicide prevention and wellbeing initiatives for both current and former military personnel. With a team of advisors—including experts from diverse fields—she is focused on holding the government accountable for implementing the Commission's 122 recommendations.

While acknowledging the deep-seated skepticism surrounding cultural reform within Defence, McKay expressed her commitment to try her best to bring about meaningful changes. "I dare say that's a little bit naive… but I want to say we will try our damnedest to do it," she remarked.

The upcoming DVSC military sexual violence inquiry will be one of the first initiatives under her leadership. McKay is keen on ensuring the inquiry is forward-looking and centered on the experiences of those affected. "What I would say to anybody who has experienced military sexual violence is that it's unacceptable," she affirmed, inviting victims to come forward as the Commission seeks to make impactful recommendations.

Despite concerns about the implementation of prior recommendations, McKay remains dedicated to thorough evaluation. She noted that while Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh reported 32 recommendations as implemented, many others may not meet the same criteria upon closer inspection.

McKay's background as a state, territory, and commonwealth prosecutor, coupled with her familial ties to the military, has equipped her with a unique perspective on accountability and transparency. "I think it's also important that the person in this role comes with fresh eyes… doesn't have conflicts of interest that might mar what we say," she explained.

As she embarks on her five-year tenure, McKay will gauge her success through the trust she earns from the veteran community, the structural changes she influences, and the tangible improvements observed by service members and their families. "If I can gain a level of trust in the veteran and defence community… if I can influence the departments and the governments to make those changes, then I think that will be a measure of success," she concluded.

Source: www.abc.net.au