Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Scoping Study
The Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Scoping Study marks the first stage of a critical research initiative designed to better understand the impacts of Australian Defence Force (ADF) service in the MEAO since 2002.
The study’s key focus will be the mental, physical and social health of veterans and their families, and will provide a much-needed evidence base to inform future veteran support services.
This six-month study, led by Gallipoli Medical Research (GMR) in partnership with Griffith University and the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR), is the foundation for a broader, more in-depth investigation into the long-term effects of MEAO service.
Why this study matters
While previous research has examined veteran health more broadly, the MEAO Scoping Study is the first of its kind to focus specifically on MEAO veterans and their families. It aims to:
- Identify the unique physical and mental health challenges faced by MEAO veterans
- Assess the long-term impacts of recent conflicts on the veteran community
- Ensure that veterans’ voices are central in shaping future research and policy
- Build a strong foundation for a future full-scale study that will deliver targeted support strategies.
Project phases and progress
The study is structured into four key phases, with work already well underway:
- Phase 1: Environmental scan and literature review
- Over 18,000 relevant studies identified and being refined On track for completion by May 2025
- Phase 2: Veteran and Families Voice Workshops
- Development in progress, with workshops scheduled between March and May (pending ethics approval)
- Sessions will include a diverse range of voices, including serving and ex-serving veterans, families, and key veteran advocates
- Phase 3: Review of Australian MEAO data assets
- In progress, concluding by the end of May
- Will assess existing veteran health data to inform the final research proposal
- Phase 4: Research proposal development
- Findings from the first three phases will be compiled into a comprehensive research proposal by July 2025.
Click here for more information on the MEAO Scoping Study.
NEXT STEPS
Ethics approval underway: The study’s ethics proposal has been submitted to the Departments of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) and will be reviewed in early February.
- Workshop planning: Locations and participant selection are being finalised to ensure broad representation across the veteran community.
- Stakeholder engagement: Regular updates will be provided to key stakeholders, with communication materials made available once ethics approval is granted.
How can veterans and their families get involved?
- Attend a Veteran and Families Voice Workshop: Have your say and contribute lived experience insights
- Share your story: Personal accounts help shape research priorities and ensure veteran perspectives remain central
- Stay updated: Follow project developments via RSL Australia’s Research Hub
- Spread the word: Encourage fellow veterans and families to participate.
This story was originally published in the April 2025 edition of Mufti.
Author
RSL Victoria
First established in 1916, RSL Victoria’s primary objectives are to provide support to veterans and their families, acknowledge Australian Defence Force service and perpetuate its patriotic duty whilst encouraging conversation and mateship between those who have served and their communities. A crucial role of the RSL is also to appropriately commemorate those who have suffered and died in service of our nation or its allies.
