Overview

This bill amends the Armed Forces Act 2006 to give the Armed Forces Commissioner the power to investigate welfare concerns raised by whistleblowers within the armed forces and their families. The key change ensures the anonymity of whistleblowers while allowing for investigations into welfare issues, excluding matters related to service conditions.

Description

The bill grants the Armed Forces Commissioner the power to investigate welfare concerns raised by whistleblowers. A "whistleblower" is defined as someone subject to service law or a relevant family member raising a concern about another service member's welfare, excluding concerns about conditions of service. Amendments ensure that investigations can occur if a whistleblower consents. Crucially, any resulting report will protect the whistleblower's anonymity unless they consent to being identified.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly stated within the provided text. The cost would likely relate to the resources required for the Commissioner to conduct these additional investigations.

Groups Affected

• Armed Forces Personnel: May benefit from increased avenues to report welfare concerns without fear of retribution.
• Families of Armed Forces Personnel: Gain protection similar to service members to report welfare concerns.
• Armed Forces Commissioner: Takes on expanded responsibilities and workload.
• Ministry of Defence: Potentially faces increased scrutiny and workload.

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