Statement from RSL Victoria and Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch
Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch and RSL Victoria today clarified the ongoing operation of the Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch.
Due to financial issues at the Sub-Branch related to the trading of the business, Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch has entered voluntary administration.
The administrator, Worrells, has confirmed that the Sub-Branch venue will trade through and continue normal operations for the foreseeable future whilst the financial position is being assessed.
This afternoon, employees were informed. They will continue their current employment while the venue is in administration.
Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch Committee Members will assist the administrator in working towards the best outcome for the Sub-Branch, its creditors, veterans and members.
The Committee Members will also work to ensure ANZAC Day commemoration continues as per usual and will work separately on fundraising for veteran support through the ANZAC Appeal.
Veteran welfare in the Warrnambool region will continue to be coordinated by RSL Victoria at the Warrnambool Veterans Centre located within the RSL Sub-Branch building.
As owners of the land, and guarantors for a loan of the Sub-Branch, Warrnambool City Council has been consulted as part of the decision and is supportive of seeing that veteran support continues and the venue remains open.
Warrnambool City Council and the Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch are encouraging the local community to also support the venue to help create a sustainable future beyond the administration process.
Speaking on his Sub-Branch, Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch President, Richard Ridgwell said, “This is the only appropriate path to take for the Sub-Branch to have a future.
“We thank the Warrnambool City Council for their ongoing support and understanding and will continue to work with them to ensure veterans and their families in the region can access the services they require.
“We want the Warrnambool community to know that we will remain open for business, and our ANZAC Day commemoration services for 2026 will continue.
“We encourage all in Warrnambool to get involved and support the sustainability of the Sub-Branch by bringing their family in for a meal. We trust the community will get behind veterans and their families as they have for more than 100 years.”
RSL Victoria Acting CEO, Jack Crawford, has said, “We support the decision of Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch to enter administration as the responsible path forward. Where we can, we will continue to support the venue as it trades through administration.
“This situation is a strong example of why RSL Victoria’s current focus on governance reform for Sub-Branches is vital.
“RSL Victoria’s major focus now is on ensuring support for veterans and their families in the region. This will continue, irrespective of the administration process.
“We will continue to work with the Warrnambool City Council on this objective.”
