The RSL has described the coming May election as crucial for Australia’s future and has listed the nation’s defence preparedness and support for veterans and their families as key considerations for all politicians and parties.  The RSL has called for the full implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and for a significant increase in investment in Australia’s defence capability. These are among five priority asks the RSL says must be addressed by the next Federal Government following the coming election. 

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's Budget-reply promises to maintain veteran services and boost Defence funding are positive, but more detail is needed. Mr Dutton foreshadowed potential public sector cuts but not to frontline DVA and Defence services and the veteran community will hold the Opposition to this commitment.

Harry Tysoe, grandson of two WWII POWs, embarked on a poignant journey to Japan as part of the 2025 Japan-Australia Grassroots Exchange Program. Visiting sites of historical significance, including Hiroshima and POW camps, he explored the lasting impact of war, fostering reconciliation and understanding while honouring the memory of those who suffered.

The RSL has welcomed tonight’s Budget announcement to continue the Federal Government’s support for the veteran community.  But it is disappointing that it hasn’t taken more definitive funding decisions to implement all recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and that it hasn’t boosted Defence spending sufficiently to meet increased international instability and the growing security threat in our region. 

RSL’s much-anticipated limited edition Anzac Biscuit tins will arrive in stores by the first of April, bringing a wave of excitement among collectors and RSL supporters.   Find out more about the tins and which stores will be stocking them.

Late last year, RSL Australia announced a ground-breaking initiative to assess the impacts on Australian veterans of service in our armed forces between 2002 and 2021, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq.  

The RSL has already received its first progress report from the research consortium that shows the project is progressing well and is on time. 

The RSL is often asked about the correct protocols for wearing medals and we hope this guide will support those who have earned medals, and those who are wearing them in memory, to wear their medals proudly to honour our veterans and remember those who have served. This article serves as a general guide and is not a strict set of rules.

The RSL welcomes the passing of the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024 to simplify veteran compensation and entitlements. This is a massive step forward in supporting our veterans and their families. The new legislation consolidates complex processes, making it easier to access vital support.

RSL Australia is seeking an experienced Executive Secretariat Officer to join our team in the national office in Canberra.

Applicants must have a minimum of 4 years of administrative experience, proven excellence in verbal and written communication, great attention to detail and be a highly collaborative and inclusive team player.

RSL Australia has reiterated its call for all sides of Federal Parliament to pass new laws governing veterans' compensation and entitlements without further delay. RSL Australia President Greg Melick said “The mental health and wellbeing of our veterans continues to be put at risk while the current complex and confusing compensation framework remains in effect, and we cannot afford for this critical piece of legislation not to be passed in this term of Parliament. We urge the Government, Opposition and crossbench to prioritise the passing of this bill before Parliament rises for the election.”

A declining sense of patriotism in Australia is putting the defence of the nation at risk.  A paper prepared by the RSL Defence and National Security Committee contends that a reduction in national pride has impacted on Australian Defence Force (ADF) recruitment and service retention in our armed forces. 

The RSL has called on the national parliament to put veterans and their families before politics by passing veterans’ entitlement legislation before the current session concludes for the Federal Election.  The Bill was not passed prior to the Christmas break and is currently before the Senate. 

The RSL says the 2025-26 Federal Budget must provide funding for the continued implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, as well as resources to ensure a balanced Australian Defence Force (ADF). 

In its submission to the Government, the RSL advocates for necessary budgetary provisions in five priority areas.

RSL Australia congratulates the 2025 recipients of the Australia Day Achievement Medallions and sincerely thanks them for the exceptional work that they do. This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond, providing loyal and dedicated service to their communities.

The past year has been one of significant activity and endeavour for RSL Australia.  Throughout 2024, the RSL National Office has been heavily involved in promoting veterans’ affairs, advocating for benefits and veteran’s wellbeing, and coordinating programs and initiatives to provide opportunities for veterans and their families.  

RSL Australia attended the ESORT (Ex-Service Organisation Round Table) meeting on Tuesday, 3 December 2024. Here is the communique provided by DVA summarising the meeting.

The Returned & Services League of Australia has called on the Government to work with Russian authorities to enable the return of the remains of Australian Victoria Cross war hero, Sergeant Samuel Pearse VC MM.

RSL Australia has welcomed the Australia Government’s positive response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. RSL Australia National President Greg Melick said the Government’s prompt and comprehensive response should commence the national effort to improve the health and wellbeing of veterans, current serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families.

RSL Australia has launched a major initiative to research the impacts on veterans and their families as a result of Australian Defence Force (ADF) service since 2002, particularly in conflicts in the Middle East. The ground-breaking project aims to identify and better understand the needs and concerns of contemporary veterans and their families and ensure that they are provided with the support and services they deserve.

The RSL has commended the awarding of a Victoria Cross to late Private Richard Norden for his gallantry during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral in Vietnam in 1968. 

RSLA National President Greg Melick said the approval by His Majesty King Charles III to bestow this highest military honour on Private Norden, announced on Remembrance Day, provided a further reminder of the great service and sacrifice of Australian Defence personnel.