I’m watching the news from the Middle East. Here we go again. 

If that sounds weary, it’s because it is. But it isn’t cynicism. It’s recognition. 

For those who have served there, the reaction is physical before it is intellectual. The geography flashes on screen. The names of cities. The familiar cadence of escalating statements and retaliatory strikes. We have seen this sequence before.

The RSL categorically rejects the assertion by United States’ President Donald Trump that allied forces "stayed a little back, a little off the front lines" in Afghanistan.

RSL Australia National President, Peter Tinley, said the President’s claim was factually wrong, historically ignorant, and deeply offensive to the 47 Australian service personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice, the 261 wounded, and the nearly 40,000 Australians who served in our nation's longest war.

The RSL has been part of Australia’s social fabric for more than a century. It was built by veterans for veterans, an organisation forged from hardship, sacrifice and the powerful instinct of Australians to look after one another. But institutions do not survive on legacy alone. They survive because they adapt. The RSL’s mission is as vital today as it was in 1916. Australians expect us to evolve—to become a contemporary, competent organisation that delivers real value to veterans and contributes meaningfully to national life.

The Returned & Services League of Australia utterly condemns the cowardly terrorist attack on Jewish families celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach and extends its profound condolences to those killed and injured, their families, and the entire Jewish community.

RSL National President, Peter Tinley AM, has a vision for the RSL. Read more about his three key priorities: establishing veterans' issues as national security priorities, bridging the generational divide for contemporary veterans, and building a stronger national advocacy capability.

National President of the RSL, Peter Tinley AM has been appointed to the Australian War Memorial Council for a three-year term. The appointment was announced by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Hon Matt Keogh MP and follows the retirement from the Council of former RSL National President Greg Melick AO.

The RSL today announces Peter Tinley, a distinguished Former Special Forces Officer, has been elected as the new National President.  The retired Special Air Services Regiment Major and former Western Australian Government Minister was formally elected today by the RSL’s State Branches prior to the RSL Australia Annual General Meeting.