RSL Australia National President’s Newsletter
The following newsletter was distributed by RSL Australia National President Greg Melick:
In the last month, there have been three very important issues of note for the RSL.
1. Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The final report has now been tabled, and with it, 122 recommendations for change. Before this Royal Commission, there had been at least 57 previous inquiries, some 770 recommendations for change, and no improvement in military suicide rates
Australia’s veterans need – and deserve – committed government action to address the many factors which lead to veteran suicides.
I have written to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese advising that as the nation’s largest ex-service organisation, the RSL stands ready to leverage its considerable skills, expertise and lived experience to help the Government develop and deliver a comprehensive response to the Royal Commission’s final report. I expect it will take some time for the Government to consider each of the 122 recommendations made by the Royal Commission and to respond in full.
Initially, the RSL is asking for prompt acceptance and implementation of seven recommendations because early action will have a significantly positive and prompt impact on current and former serving men and women and their families.
2. Revoking medals from Afghanistan veterans.
The RSL’s firm position from the outset of the Brereton Report is that no medals should be taken away from recipients until all investigations and potential trials have been completed. Natural justice demands this.
3. The RSL name used by Clubs not affiliated with the RSL
We are aware that several entities not affiliated with the RSL use the RSL brand name and derive profits from gaming machines. It’s a common misconception that all RSL clubs are owned and operated by the RSL. There is also a significant difference in how Clubs operate from State to State. The RSL will continue to work to ensure that where its brand is used, profits derived from gaming machines are channelled into enhancing veteran services and supporting veterans and their families.
25th Anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste
On Friday, 20 September, we commemorated the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste. I attended the national service at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial, along with around 700 attendees, including senior representatives from the Australian Defence Force and Australian Federal Police, Ex-Service Organisations, and prominent ADF veterans and AFP members who served in Timor-Leste, along with the next of kin of those who tragically lost their lives whilst deployed, or as a result of their service, in Timor-Leste. It was an honour to be there to remember the service of all Australian men and women who served in Timor-Leste.
Opportunities for the veteran community
In 2025, Australia will commemorate the 110th anniversary of Anzac Day. Coinciding with this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for veterans and families to volunteer with DVA in the delivery of Anzac Day services in France and Türkiye.
Veterans’ Health Week (VHW) events take place throughout the month of October. RSL Sub-branches are hosting some great events!
The Wheels on Waves catamaran Spirito di Stella is now in Darwin. Veterans are invited onboard to sail on the purpose-built, fully accessible catamaran.
Upcoming Commemorations
11 October – Australia’s commitment to the war in Afghanistan began with Operation Slipper (2001)
19 October – War Widows Day
24 October – United Nations Day
