Frequently Asked Questions

About RSL

What is the role of RSL Australia?

The role of the RSL Australia is to provide on behalf of Australia’s Veterans and Defence families national advocacy, supportive and co-ordinated national programs and activities, seek funding and manage the RSL brand.

How does the RSL Governance Model Work?

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. Together, our vision is to help Australia’s Veterans and Defence families enjoy better opportunities in all aspects of their lives.

What does the RSL do?

The RSL enables both serving and retired veterans and their families to connect with those with shared experiences and values through membership.

The RSL provides pension and welfare support to its community and the opportunity to continue to serve through volunteering.

RSL Australia provides a sounding board for the Government in the development of policy. It contributes to reasoned public debate, public education, and increased public awareness of the Veterans’ Affairs portfolio issues of interest to the veteran and defence communities.

Is RSL Australia relevant for young veterans?

The RSL strives to demonstrate to current and future members of the League, and the broader community, that we are open to exploring innovative ideas, investing in new programs and resourcing our support mechanisms to ensure we can provide the assistance needed by our upcoming younger membership.

We take the time to listen and learn about individual experiences and we use this information to adapt existing programs and design new initiatives for support and advocacy services to meet their specific needs. We have made great strides in a relatively short period of time and are expanding our capabilities in this area all of the time. Our RSL Ambassadors work within communities to inspire and encourage younger members to join the league.

It is important to remember that our support extends not just to members of the League, but to all those that have put on the uniform in the service of their country and the RSL welcomes eligible members of all ages.

What’s the difference between RSL Sub-branches and RSL clubs?

Initially, almost all RSL clubs were formed as or from sub-branches as part of the League, but over time, some clubs and sub-branches in some States have become separate entities. This differs from state to state. Learn more.

Finding information

How do I find service records?

Comprehensive information about how to obtain historical or more recent service records can be found on the Department of Defence website.

Can you help me find ex-ADF personnel?

The RSL does not hold any records or information related to ex-ADF personnel and is therefore unable to assist in finding an ex-serving member.

Can I get replicas or replacements of my relative's service medals?

Comprehensive information about obtaining replacement or replica medals can be found on the Department of Defence website.

Replicas of service medals are available for purchase from reputable medals dealers or a commercial military memorabilia outlet. If you don't know what medals your relative may have been entitled to you can request a list of your relatives’ entitled awards. A list can be requested by clicking on this link - Defence Medals Application Form.

What is the appropriate way to wear my relative’s medals?

Only a direct descendant of a deceased service man or woman, should wear medals that have not been awarded to him or her personally. These should be worn on the right breast.

The RSL discourages the wearing of non-official medals at RSL and other ceremonial or commemorative functions. However, if they are worn as the occasion demands, these are also to be placed on the right breast. More information on medal protocols can be found here.

CommunicatiON

Can I send you something to send out to your members? 

Any requests to disseminate information to members should be forwarded directly to RSL State Branches. Links to the Branch websites can be found in the footer of the website.

Why did RSL call me?

We have recently been alerted to a phone scam operating under the guise of RSL. Members of the public have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be RSL staff members and seeking ‘opt-ins’ to the charity.

Some people are reporting calls from a phone number listed as RSL COM Australia. This is not RSL Australia.

Please note, RSL Australia does not undertake any telephone marketing and will never ask for financial contributions, donations or for any personal information via this channel.

While some of our RSL Branches do undertake fundraising campaigns periodically, this is typically through street appeals or via official RSL websites.

As per Australia’s Cyber Security Centre advice, we encourage people to be extra cautious if asked to supply personal details or financial contributions via an unknown phone number or email. The recommended advice is to decline and seek clarification through the official company contact lines.

How to report a scam:

If you have experienced any suspicious phishing behaviour associated to the RSL please report this along with any supporting details (emails, phone numbers etc) so it can be further investigated.
Email: Enquiries@rsl.org.au

For more information on scams and tips on how to protect yourself please visit:
www.cyber.gov.au/learn/scams

RSL Memberships

How do I become a member of an RSL ? 

RSL Memberships are managed by State Branches (or their respective Sub Branches) and are unique to their jurisdiction in terms of membership type, services, benefits and fee structure. Please refer to your State Branch for membership details.