RSL Australia welcomes announcement of Senate Inquiry into Defence estate divestment
The nation’s peak body for serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel has welcomed the Senate Inquiry into the proposed divestment of 67 Defence estate sites, describing it as a critical opportunity to ensure the process is done properly.
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) said the Government has only one chance to get the disposal of Defence assets right — and must ensure decisions are transparent, strategic and deliver long-term benefit for veterans, Defence personnel and the broader community.
RSL Australia President, Peter Tinley AM, said the announcement of the Senate Inquiry follows strong advocacy from the Defence and veteran community, including an RSL-led petition, which is no longer required.
“The voices of Australia’s veteran and defence community have been heard,” he said. “But the task is far from over and the League is now working to prepare a submission to present to the Inquiry.
“We thank the thousands of Australians who signed the RSL Australia petition, and we are now entering a critical phase to ensure that the views of veterans and Defence personnel are properly considered by the Inquiry.
“The RSL’s submission will call on the Government to justify its divestment decisions and explain how the proposed sale of properties align with its plans for Australia’s defence needs.
“Each site must be assessed and the transition arrangements addressed, the Government must be transparent about projected returns and fully consider community and veteran connections to properties, particularly those with historic and heritage values.”
Peter Tinley said the RSL had called on the Government to tap the brakes and take a breath here.
“The proposed sell-off must be done correctly, because once these sites are gone, they’re gone forever and the Senate Inquiry should provide that necessary oversight and caution.
“Our veterans and serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have deep connections to the identified sites and many of them are still used by ADF personnel and/or hold significant heritage value to the Australian community.
“These sites belong to all Australians – past, present and future and we will ensure that the views of veterans and our serving personnel are heard by the Senate Inquiry,” he said
Peter Tinley said people could still add their names on the RSL Australia website HERE to strengthen the submission and contribute views to help shape the RSL content.
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL Australia) is the nation’s largest and oldest ex-service organisation, representing more than 153,000 members through 1,087 sub-branches across seven State and Territory branches. Since 1916, the League has worked to promote the interests and welfare of serving and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families.
The full statement from RSL Australia can also be found on their website, HERE.
