RSL Australia
Advocating for benefits, treatment and the welfare of current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force, and leading the nation in commemorative services, since 1916.
Founded on an ethos of compassion and service
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL Australia) was formed in 1916 in response to the lack of a unified approach to the organisation of repatriation facilities and medical services for those returning from the Great War (World War I).
On the 6th of June 1916, a meeting held in Melbourne became the genesis of the Returned & Services League of Australia as we know it today. The meeting was attended by delegates from Victoria, South Australia, NSW and Queensland who agreed to name the organisation The Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia (RSSILA). Although Tasmanian Delegates could not attend as they were unable to afford the expense of travelling to Melbourne, Tasmania did join Victoria, South Australia and Queensland as the Founding members of the League. New South Wales and Western Australia joined the League in 1917, and the ACT in 1927.
Prior to the League’s establishment, Returned Service Associations had formed in various states and were lobbying for privileges for returned men in their respective States. The lack of repatriation facilities had distressed returned soldiers who were in need of aid so the Associations formed to help returned servicemen obtain benefits.
The founding members of the League set out to lobby for better benefits, treatment and the welfare of veterans and serving members of the Defence Force and to preserve the health, wellbeing and security of Australia and the Australian way of life.
Since its formation, RSL Australia has evolved into the nation’s largest Ex-Service Organisation. An ethos of compassion and service remains the motivating influence of the League. Our core mission has never changed and has continued to evolve to meet the needs of each generation of servicemen and women.
RSL Federated Governance Structure
RSL Australia is a federation of its independent State Branches, which in turn are comprised by their Sub-branches, representing more than 147,000 members.
RSL State Branches and their Sub-Branches deliver a diverse range of services which are tailored to reflect the priorities and needs of veterans in each State.
The RSL’s National Office shapes the national agenda on veterans affairs on behalf of the RSL’s State Branches. It provides national advocacy on behalf of current and ex-serving men, women and their families. It supports and coordinates national programs and activities. It owns and manages the RSL brand. RSL Australia is overseen by a National Board comprising representatives of each State Branch supported by independent Board members.
RSL National PResident
The National President of the Returned & Services League is Greg Melick, AO RFD FANZCN SC
RSL National Board
RSL Australia is overseen by a National Board comprising representatives of each State Branch supported by independent Board members.
Together, our vision is to help Australia’s Veterans and Defence families enjoy better opportunities in all aspects of their lives.
RSL National Office
Situated in Canberra, the RSL national office coordinates the national interests of the organisation.
OUR PURPOSE:
Help veterans and their families by offering care, financial assistance and advocacy. To lead the nation in commemorative services that help all Australians to remember the fallen.
Our Values
Commemoration
Care
Advocacy
Camaraderie
A Brief History of the LEague