President’s Newsletter

In the second quarter, we saw the release of the Federal Government's Budget, which contained some vital support measures for Australia's veterans and their families; however, much remains to be done to improve the lives of those who have served our nation.

The RSL developed a summary of the Budget measures relating to veterans, including how the Budget accounts for implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The report's final page summarises what RSL has been lobbying for versus the budget response.

While significant progress has been made, we will continue to advocate for measures not included in the Budget and demand-driven programs and funding.      

New Memorial Honours Korean Veterans

A new memorial will be unveiled in Kings Park, Perth to honour Western Australian veterans who served in the Korean War on Thursday, 27 July - Korean Veterans’ Day. This year marks 70 years since the signing of the Armistice of the Korean War. The centrepiece of the memorial is a spectacular five-tonne rock from the battlegrounds of the Battle of Kapyong.

Vietnam Veterans Commemorations

This year is an important year of commemoration for our Vietnam Veterans. 2023 marks 60 years since the arrival of the Australian Army Training Team in South Vietnam and 50 years since the withdrawal of combat troops.

Vietnam Veterans Vigil - 3 August

The Vietnam Veterans Vigil aims to have services of remembrance conducted at the grave or commemorative plaque site of every Australian killed in the Vietnam conflict. They are seeking volunteers to assist in coordinating the services.  Learn more.

National Commemorative Service - 18 August

A national commemorative service to honour and remember the service of our Vietnam Veterans will take place on Vietnam Veterans' Day, Friday, 18 August 2023, at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra. Seating is limited, and attendees are required to register. The service will be broadcast nationally by the ABC and streamed online.

National Forum for ESOs

The second national forum for ESOs took place on 30 May in Sydney. More than 40 ex-service organisations from across Australia came together to collaborate on priority issues and continue, as a sector, supporting veterans and their families.  A report summarising the key discussions and outcomes of the forum and the commitments the ESO sector has made to working together is available on our website.

RSL Active

RSL Active is a national program that provides opportunities for veterans to join other veterans and local communities to get active. Virtual clubs for Cyclists and Runners/Walkers are also available on the popular Strava App.

Coming up on 13 August is the City2Surf - the world's largest fun run! Join the RSL NSW Sport & Recreation Team and participate in the City2Surf in Sydney (register by 30 June), or join us virtually via the RSL Active Runners & Walkers Strava Club and run/walk/wheelchair or racechair 14km on Sunday, 13 August. There are prizes to be won!

If you haven’t already, please consider following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn to stay updated with news from RSL Australia.

Greg Melick
RSL Australia National President

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