The Returned & Services League of Australia

The RSL is Australia's largest ex-service organisation, dedicated to serving those who have served, since 1916.

 

 149,000+ Members

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1,095 Sub-Branches

A Voice for Veterans

RSL Australia is a leading voice for veterans (both current and former serving ADF members) and their families, working on behalf of our independent State and Territory Branches to shape policy, legislation, and the national agenda on veterans’ affairs with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders.  

 RSL Australia advocates to ensure the needs of veterans and their families are met, and their voices are heard.  

The RSL State, District and Sub-branches across the nation provide a broad range of welfare and wellbeing services, programs and events for current and former ADF members and their families.   RSL Memberships are managed by State Branches.

Connect with your State Branch.   

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  • Swimmer in pool - RSL Active

    Join 'Team RSL' - RSL Active

    Right now, we're recruiting RSL members to join 'Team RSL' for the 20th Australian Masters Games in Canberra, from October 18-25, 2025. Thanks to RSL Active, we're covering the $160 Games entry fee for RSL members, plus providing a Team RSL shirt.

    Join the team!
  • RSL National President public speaking

    National Advocacy

    The RSL is one of the most respected voices representing veterans, directly influencing the Federal Government. We advocate on important issues to current and former serving ADF members and their families.

    Learn more
  • ADF personnel deployed on Middle East Area of Operations

    National Research

    The Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Scoping Study is currently underway. This is the first phase of a major two-stage study to research the impacts on veterans and their families as a result of Australian Defence Force (ADF) service since 2002.

    Learn more
  • Veterans standing shoulder to shoulder

    RSL Membership

    Belong to the RSL and get involved in Australia’s largest veteran community.  The RSL welcomes new members and encourages you to belong to the RSL family. 

    Learn more

 Latest News

 
Featured
RSL Supporting Research on Brain Injuries in ADF

The RSL has welcomed and is supporting research into brain injuries to service personnel, being undertaken by the Departments of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). As well, the RSL has also repeated its call for the Government to establish a brain injury program as recommended by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. 

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Australian Defence Preparedness - Are we falling short?

The RSL Defence and National Security Committee is reviewing a paper submitted by independent consultant and former RAAF officer Peter Robinson, a specialist in military preparedness, mobilisation and risk. He argues that Australia's military capacity is now at a level where it's almost unable to sustain a commitment to any serious conflict.

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RSL Australia Statement on 60 Minutes Story

Claims of sexual assaults and misconduct in the ADF were raised in a report on the 60 Minutes television program. The matters raised are deeply concerning. The welfare of the current and former servicewomen impacted is of paramount importance. The RSL reiterates its call for the full and early implementation of all recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, including recommendations 14-25 specifically addressing sexual misconduct.

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Call Out to Families: UN Special Service Medal for Australia's Peacekeepers in Indonesia (1947-1951)

Efforts are underway to contact the descendants of 65 Australian servicemen who supported the UN in Indonesia between 1947-1951, to let them know they are eligible for the UN Special Service Medal.

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