Gun ban over soldier welfare concerns

A report says more than 100 Australian soldiers have been banned this year from using military weapons for a variety of reasons, including psychological issues.

There are concerns about family violence and psychological issues in the defence forces following a report claiming more than 100 soldiers have been banned from using military weapons this year.

News Corp Australia reports 134 Army officers have been banned for matters ranging from positive drug tests and psychological issues, to self-harm and family violence.

About 25 of the cases related to family violence, according to the report, while at least half were for psychological reasons.

There remains a "duty of care to protect the physical and mental health and wellbeing" of personnel, according to Defence Minister Marise Payne .

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.

Multicultural Mental Health Australia www.mmha.org.au.

National domestic violence helpline: 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT. In an emergency call triple-zero.


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Source: AAP



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