The Commando Welfare Trust (CWT) is proud to announce that former Defence Minister Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon has joined the organisation as a Patron, alongside MajGen Tim McOwan AO, DSC, CSM (Rtd).
Joe’s longstanding commitment to veterans’ welfare is well-known, having advocated for the community during his time as Australia’s Defence Minister and in his ongoing work since leaving politics. His involvement with CWT will strengthen its mission to provide emergency and long-term support to Special Forces soldiers, veterans, and their families.
Earlier this year, Joel Fitzgibbon faced the heartbreaking death of his son, Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon, who was a member of the 2nd Commando Regiment. Despite the personal tragedy, Joel has turned his grief into action, providing extraordinary support to the veteran community.
His role as a CWT ambassador and his participation in the City2Surf fundraiser highlighted his determination to make a difference. Now, as a Patron of the CWT, he is set to tackle even more critical issues faced by veterans, serving members and their families.
Following the findings of the Royal Commission on Defence and Veteran Suicide, Joel plans to work with the CWT, Department of Veteran Affairs’ and other stakeholders to ensure the recommendations get turned into actions that lead to results.
Additionally, Joel Fitzgibbon is eager to address the growing awareness around Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI), an “invisible injury” that impacts many soldiers exposed to blast waves during combat and training.
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide recently recognised the significance of mTBI. MTBI has been the subject of extensive research in the United States and is now emerging as a key issue in Australia.
Joel believes that the strategic challenges Australia faces today, with global instability and increasing security threats, highlight the need for continued investment in the well-being of service members and their families.
The five SOCOMD training deaths over the past year showcase the dangers our soldiers face, even in times of no conflict. Furthermore, there are Australians still dealing with the consequences of the past 30 years.
This work not only serves veterans but ensures our sovereign capability as there is an alarming drop in Australians joining the defence.
Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon says:
“The work the Commando Welfare Trust does often flies under the radar but it is vital in addressing the unique challenges faced by Special Forces members, and I am honoured to contribute to this mission. The deaths of five servicemen in Special Operations Command training exercises since July 2023 are a stark reminder of the risks these men and women take every day to protect our country. Additionally, there are a small group of Australians who have served in the conflicts over the past 30 years who are still dealing with the fallout from this and often fall under the radar. We owe them and their families our full support, and that’s what the Commando Welfare Trust is here to provide.”
“The uncertainty of Australia’s current strategic environment means we need to invest in the welfare of our people to ensure we have the strongest possible military capabilities and recruitment levels remain high. Failing to do so will expose Australia and create sovereign vulnerabilities.”
Brigadier Mark Smethurst, DSC, AM (Rtd), Chairman of the Commando Welfare Trust, says:
“Joel’s leadership and advocacy for the veteran community will be invaluable as the CWT continues to work towards addressing the physical, mental, and financial needs of veterans and their families. His appointment could not be more timely with the emerging challenge our community is now facing, following the Royal Commission and the emergence of mTBI. We believe his connection to the cause and his wealth of experience in politics and defence make him an ideal figure to help drive positive change and overcome the contemporary challenges Special Forces now face.”
“The Commando Welfare Trust looks forward to Joel Fitzgibbon’s contributions as a Patron and will continue its mission of supporting Australia’s Special Forces veterans and their families in times of hardship.”