Steadying the Ship. RSL Acknowledges Greg Melick’s Leadership
Six-and-a-half-year Presidency marked by restored trust, modernised advocacy, and strengthened veteran services
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) acknowledges the exceptional tenure of National President Greg Melick, whose six-and-a-half-year presidency concludes next week (16 October 2025).
Known for his steadfast leadership, Greg Melick, with a dedicated National Board and management team, successfully 'steadied the ship' during a critical time for the organisation, restoring trust and modernising its approach to veteran advocacy.
Greg Melick assumed the RSL presidency in May 2019 during a period of significant organisational challenge, inheriting governance issues that had severely impacted public trust in Australia's largest ex-service organisation. His leadership has been instrumental in not only restoring the RSL's credibility but fundamentally transforming it into a modern, influential voice for the nation's veteran community.
Under Greg Melick's stewardship, with Board support, the RSL underwent comprehensive governance reform, rebuilding public confidence and establishing the moral authority necessary for effective veteran advocacy. His re-election for a second term in October 2022 confirmed a clear mandate from RSL State Branches to continue his reformist agenda.
The restructure of the National Office and the appointment of an experienced Chief Executive Officer in January 2021 further strengthened the organisation's professional foundation, creating a leadership team that combined extensive military and civilian expertise.
Greg Melick's presidency was defined by the RSL's proactive engagement with the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, transforming the organisation from a traditional commemorative body into a sophisticated policy advocate.
Despite initial concerns that a long enquiry would unnecessarily delay much needed reforms to assist veterans, the RSL acted, assisting in the development of the Royal Commission's Terms of Reference, lodged detailed submissions, and is now engaging with the Government to see through the implementation of the recommendations.
Among many advances, the RSL successfully advocated for Australian Defence Force Service inclusion in the National Census, appointment of a National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention, and the harmonisation of funeral benefits for veterans.
Recognising the need to serve a new generation of veterans, Greg Melick and the Board spearheaded a comprehensive modernisation effort as well as enhancing relationships with the State Branches and key stakeholders.
The RSL's own research initiatives, including the major Middle East Area of Operations Scoping Study, demonstrated a commitment to evidence-based advocacy that strengthened the organisation's credibility with government and stakeholders.
Under Greg Melick's leadership, the RSL significantly expanded its role in national defence discussions through its Defence and National Security Committee. The organisation became a key voice on Australia's defence preparedness, funding requirements, capability development, ADF recruitment and retention, and sovereign defence industrial capacity.
The RSL's international profile was elevated through Greg Melick’s attendance at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, diplomatic engagement in Timor-Leste, and participation in the Seoul International Veterans Forum. His international work culminated in recognition as an Officer of France's Ordre national du Mérite on Anzac Day 2025 for his leadership in Anzac Centenary commemorations.
The broad advocacy achievements over the past six and a half years included the establishment of five key RSL priorities for the 2025 Federal election focusing on the full implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission implementation, greater access to fee-free advocacy for veterans, improved access to healthcare for veterans and their families, sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and boosting Australia’s Defence capability.
Greg Melick’s tenure represents the fifth-longest presidential term since the RSL's establishment in 1916, marked by restored organisational stability, enhanced government relationships, modernised service delivery, and a clear strategic vision for the future.
RSL membership has increased steadily over the past four years, now totalling more than 153,000 members
The organisation achieved record levels of policy advocacy output
Cross-state cooperation and resource sharing improved significantly
Partnerships with international organisations strengthened
Greg Melick said it had been a great honour to serve as National President of the RSL for the past six and a half years.
“Throughout my tenure, I have endeavoured to promote the interests of veterans and their families while ensuring their welfare and Australia’s defence and national security remained uppermost in our advocacy priorities,” Greg Melick said.
"When I assumed this role in 2019, the RSL faced significant challenges that required immediate attention and long-term strategic thinking. My approach was very much ‘to steady the ship’.
“I am proud that together with our National Board, dedicated management team, State Branches, and committed members, we have rebuilt trust, modernised our operations, and strengthened our voice as advocates for those who have served our nation.
"The work we accomplished in response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide represents some of our most important advocacy, ensuring that the sacrifices and struggles of our veterans drive meaningful policy change at the highest levels of government.
"As I conclude my presidency, I am confident that the RSL is well-positioned to continue its vital mission of supporting veterans and their families while contributing to Australia's national security discussions. The organisation's future is bright, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have played a part in this transformative chapter of the RSL's proud history."
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For more information, contact RSL Australia: media@rsl.org.au