RSL Victoria Statement on closure process for Kew RSL Sub-Branch
RSL Victoria today announced that the 12-month suspension of the charter of the Kew RSL Sub-Branch has concluded and that it will now commence the formal process of closing the Sub-Branch.
The decision follows significant concerns identified over the previous two years regarding the governance and operation of the Sub-Branch, which included:
- Failure to fulfil the objects and purposes of the RSL in supporting veterans and their families
- Failure to maintain a duly elected committee in accordance with the RSL Rules and By-laws and the statutory obligations for incorporated associations
- Failure to comply with the Rules and By-laws of the RSL in the operations of a Sub-Branch.
RSL Victoria has a responsibility to ensure that all Sub-Branches operate to appropriate standards of governance, accountability, transparency, and financial management. When a Sub-Branch operates outside these standards, or in a manner that risks undermining the integrity and reputation of the RSL, we have an obligation to act.
RSL Victoria’s review found there was a lack of Service members engaged in operations of the Kew Sub-Branch, no structured or ongoing veteran support programs being delivered and limited evidence that it was fulfilling its primary purpose of supporting veterans and their families.
As part of the 12-month suspension there was the opportunity for a veteran-led group to put forward a plan for reform, that placed veteran and family support at the heart of the Sub-Branch’s operations.
Unfortunately, no suitable proposal was received during the period.
RSL Victoria will commence the formal process of closing the Kew RSL Sub-Branch and managing its assets and liabilities in accordance with the RSL Rules and By-laws.
The priority of RSL Victoria is that veterans and their families in Kew can access support services.
Throughout the suspension period, Hawthorn and Box Hill RSL Sub-Branches have provided local welfare support, advocacy, referrals and opportunities for veteran connection and engagement, ensuring that there is no interruption to services for the local veteran community.
RSL Victoria will also continue to seek local support for commemorative activities.
During the suspension period, a local group successfully assumed responsibility for ANZAC Day commemorative activities, which will continue with the support of nearby Sub-Branches.
RSL Victoria, Hawthorn RSL Sub-Branch, Box Hill RSL Sub-Branch and Camberwell RSL Sub-Branch are working together on longer-term arrangements to ensure veteran support services, commemorative activities and community engagement programs remain.
Kew RSL Sub-Branch has played a significant role in supporting veterans for most of the last century, and its legacy will continue through ongoing support for veterans and their families and through the continuation of commemorative traditions in the community.
RSL Victoria remains committed to directing its resources where they can have the greatest impact for veterans and their families. As the needs of veterans continue to evolve, RSL Victoria will continue to focus on providing contemporary support services and ensuring resources are deployed across the areas of highest need, while maintaining opportunities for commemoration, connection, and community engagement.
