Research Centre: Open Door Initiative, Flinders University
Location: This study is conducted virtually, it is a one-off, online survey and is open across Australia
Lead Researcher: Professor Ben Wadham
Co-Investigators: Professor Sharon Lawn, Dr Margaret Hutchinson, Dr Karen Bird, Professor Udoy Saikia, Professor Karl Hamner
HREC: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Flinders University Human Research Ethics Committee (Project ID 7206)

Many Australians who have served in the defence forces have diverse experiences that shape their wellbeing, both during and after service. This survey, conducted by Flinders University, aims to better understand wellbeing from the perspectives of men and women who have served.

The study seeks to identify and explore aspects of wellbeing that are important to people who have served Australia. The survey asks questions about satisfaction in various aspects of life, community engagement, and the role that government policies and supports in shaping the lives of veterans and their families.

By sharing your experiences, you can help researchers develop insights that may inform future support systems and policies. Your voice matters. Help shape a better future for all who have served. Sign up today!

For more details about the study, read through the Participant Information Sheet here!

• This study will aid in better understanding wellbeing from the point of view of men and women who have served in Australia’s Defence Force. Survey findings will enable the identification of potential areas of focus for services, support, and funding that can aid in achieving long-term wellbeing including suicide prevention.

• If you agree to participate in this research study, you will be asked to complete an online survey. The survey asks questions about your satisfaction with life, different aspects of wellbeing, and about your background.
• This online survey takes about 20 minutes of your time to complete. For some participants, completion may take up to 30 minutes. Participation is anonymous and confidential. We will not know who participates in the survey, or not.
• If you are in receipt of DVA entitlements, these cannot be affected by participating in this study.
• Withdrawal Rights: You may decline to take part in this research study. If you decide to take part and later change your mind, you may withdraw at any time without providing an explanation. To withdraw, simply exit the online survey. As participation is anonymous, your responses cannot be withdrawn after the survey has been submitted.
• Privacy and confidentiality are assured. Research findings may be presented at conferences, written up for publication, or used for other research purposes as described in this Information Sheet. Only aggregate data (i.e., the combined survey data) will be used in any documents/ resources produced from this Survey.
• The information collected will be stored securely on a password-protected computer at  Flinders University for 10 years after publication of any results. Following the required data storage period, all data will be securely destroyed according to university protocols.
• There will be no compensation provided. We appreciate that through participation, participants recognise the potential that this study has for informing Survey findings will enable the identification of potential areas of focus for services, support, and funding that can aid in achieving long-term wellbeing and suicide prevention. Nevertheless, in recognition of your time and effort in completing the survey, you can elect to enter a lucky draw for one of forty AUD$50 vouchers.

• Any person aged 18+ years who has previously served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This includes national service, and the CMF (the precursor to the ADF reserves).

Open Door is a globally recognised organisation committed to enhancing the wellbeing of current and former military personnel, public safety personnel, and their families. Using a holistic approach that integrates physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Open Door addresses key challenges such as transitioning to civilian life, veteran suicide, and family support. Its work focuses on improving social, mental, and physical health, shaping policy and service provision, and fostering systemic and cultural change.
Driven by evidence-based research, Open Door collaborates with governments, non-profits, researchers, and individuals with lived experience to design and deliver impactful programs. Its multidisciplinary team, drawing from fields such as sociology, psychology, and health sciences, ensures innovative and co-designed solutions. Open Door welcomes partnerships to create meaningful change for service personnel and their families.