Within parts of the RSL and the public, a myth is growing that the Returned and Services League (RSL) must inevitably shrink.
The argument goes that veteran numbers are declining, with the Second World War generation largely gone and the Vietnam War generation entering their twilight years. Many assume that because they associate veterans with older men, the veteran population is in terminal decline, and with it, the RSLs relevance. But that view ignores reality.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) are inviting veterans of the Second World War to express their interest in travelling to Canberra to attend a special Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial on Friday, August 15, 2025, to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War.

The Royal Australian Artillery Historical Company is building a website to provide the public with information about 2000 heritage guns across Australia to explain the heritage and importance of a gun to the community and its local history. It will include technical information, images and maps. Learn more about how you can help.

Australia is unprepared for and lacking in appreciation of the risks of war, according to a senior experienced defence expert. This is a significant danger in the current deteriorating global strategic environment. The Australian Government must take urgent action to confront current strategic risks and ensure that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has the ability to address them.

RSL Australia has launched a fundraising appeal for its Australian Forces Overseas Fund to send care packages to Australian Defence personnel serving overseas. The appeal will help fund 400 packages of treats and messages for Australian service men and women deployed on military operations overseas. Care packages will go to Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in the Middle East, South Sudan, Egypt, and other overseas theatres.

The incoming Australian Government must immediately increase Defence spending to 2.5 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and lift it to three percent in 12 months’ time.  The RSL says Increasing international tensions and global instability mean that Australia must prioritise security and substantially boost Defence spending. 

The RSL says the new Australian Government elected this Saturday, May 3 must continue the good work of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) in clearing veteran compensation and entitlement claims backlog.

The Labor, the Liberal / National Coalition and the Greens parties have responded to a series of key questions posed by the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) to support the veterans and Defence community.

Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) National President Greg Melick has been awarded a prestigious French honour in recognition of his exceptional leadership planning for Anzac Centenary commemorations from 2011 to 2018.

RSL Australia announces the recipients of the prestigious Anzac of the Year Awards. All four demonstrate outstanding commitment and exceptional service to their respective communities.

The RSL is encouraging all Australians to commemorate Anzac Day this coming Friday, 25 April 2025. This Anzac Day marks a significant anniversary – 110 years since the ANZACs landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 during World War One, so beginning a proud history of service and sacrifice that continues to be revered more than a century later.

The RSL warns that the growing barriers veterans and their families face in accessing timely healthcare, exacerbated by a widening gap between inadequate DVA fees and the actual cost of services that deters essential healthcare providers, must be urgently addressed by the next government. This is one of the five key policy asks the RSL has presented to all parties and candidates contesting the current federal election.

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) must acquire a long-range strike bomber to fill a critical capability gap and enhance the nation’s defence. Retired Air Marshal Geoff Brown AO says the absence of a dedicated long-range bomber aircraft, integrated Air and Missile Defence and a robust fighter capability are critical gaps in the RAAF’s arsenal, particularly considering emerging security challenges in Australia’s region. It is a deficiency that the incoming Government must address as a priority.

The RSL is asking all political parties to commit to improving access to quality, fee-free advocates to assist veterans and their families navigate the complex processes involved in accessing compensation and wellbeing support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has reiterated its call for the full implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and says the current election provides the opportunity for all parties to commit to this.

Sales of Anzac biscuits in collectable commemorative tins will support the vital work of the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) to assist veterans around Australia.