This is the first report using a newly established data set on the health service use of ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members. It examines the characteristics of hospitalised ex-serving members to better understand their hospital care needs, particularly for conditions associated with suicidal behaviour, including mental health-related care and intentional self-harm.
- Cat. no: PHE 346
Findings from this report:
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A higher share of hospital admissions for admitted ex-serving members were for mental health compared to all Australians
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Higher proportions of suicidal behaviour admissions were associated with Army or Navy service and involuntary separation
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The most common reasons for admission to public hospitals were similar for ex-serving members and all Australians
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One in 27 presentations to emergency by ex-serving members was for self-harm or suicidal behaviour between 2013 and 2020