“The Anzac Spirit doesn’t just live in history. It lives in the choices we make today, the way we treat each other, and the unity we show when we come together. Each Anzac Day, we honour not only what was, but what still is: the spirit that has shaped us, the spirit that lives with us, and in us.”

The RSL has welcomed the release of the National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program, noting its significant broadening of what national defence now formally encompasses - civil preparedness, fuel security and economic resilience.

This is the total national defence framework the RSL has long argued for, and seeing it formalised in government policy is an important step forward. “Investment of this scale deserves credit, and it also demands urgency,” Peter Tinley said.

The nation’s leading ex-service organisations stand united in congratulating Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM on her appointment as the 42nd Chief of Army, the first woman to lead the Australian Army in its 125-year history.   

This is a moment to celebrate.

RSL Australia extends warm congratulations to Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN on his appointment as Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM on her appointment as Chief of Army, and Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN on his appointment as Chief of Navy.

The RSL is often asked about the correct protocols for wearing medals and we hope this guide will support those who have earned medals, and those who are wearing them in memory, to wear their medals proudly to honour our veterans and remember those who have served. This article serves as a general guide and is not a strict set of rules.

The RSL strongly supports the Australian judicial system and has confidence that it will thoroughly and fairly deal with the allegations of unlawful killings by Australian Special Forces soldiers in Afghanistan.  

By Colin Montefiore.
I had the privilege of being selected to attend the Grassroots Japan-Australia Exchange Program in 2026 as a descendant (son) of a POW who was in Camp 14 Nagasaki, 1750m from the epicentre of the Atomic Bomb. Also selected was Barry Dwyer, a son of another POW from the Ohama coal mine camp. We were accompanied by Mike Gallagher, President of RSL, Tasmania.

The popular commemorative limited edition Anzac Biscuit tins will arrive in stores soon. The Returned & Services League of Australia’s limited edition Anzac Biscuit tins, with the traditional treat inside, will be available from major supermarkets and selected independent stores and outlets from the beginning of April.

More than 22,000 Australians were taken prisoner by Japan during World War Two, with some 8,000 dying due to extreme brutality, forced labour, starvation, and disease.

Launching in cinemas nationally ahead of Anzac Day is a new documentary which shines a light on a little-known aspect of this story, told through the voices and words of those who were there.

The RSL has welcomed the Senate Inquiry into the proposed divestment of 67 Defence estate sites, describing it as a critical opportunity to ensure the process is done properly. The Government has only one chance to get the disposal of Defence assets right — and must ensure decisions are transparent, strategic and deliver long-term benefit for veterans, Defence personnel and the broader community.

RSL Australia is proud to be a key sponsor of the new feature documentary: Under the Bamboo Sky - a previously untold story of Australian POWs, brought to life 80 years after the end of WWII and produced by ABCG Film Distribution in collaboration with WildBear Entertainment.

Claims advocacy is one of the most important services the RSL provides to veterans. This is largely provided by RSL volunteer advocates funded through State Branches and Sub-branches. The provision of up to $58.6 million over three years for ESOs through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Grants Program will provide greater access for veterans to secure free advocacy services and ultimately, better outcomes.

RSL has launched a national petition calling for a Senate Inquiry into the Government’s planned sale of Defence properties around the country. The League wants the Senate Standing Committees on Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade to thoroughly examine the proposed sell-off and look at the management, use and disposal of the Defence estate assets to be put up for sale.

Australia's leading veteran service organisation has called for sustained investment in veteran health and wellbeing ahead of this year's Federal Budget while signalling that the responsibility for reform now extends well beyond government.

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 Returned & Services League of Australia says the delay in resolving findings of unlawful killings by Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan represents an unacceptable injustice. RSL Australia National President, Peter Tinley AM, says justice demands that all allegations, findings and charges must be resolved as a matter of urgent priority.

The RSL has welcomed the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ introduction of a new Medicinal Cannabis Framework to protect veterans from over-prescribing and other controversial practices of telehealth cannabis companies. The changes are effective from 16 February 2026.

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has paid tribute to former Brigadier George 'Warry' Mansford AM, who passed away yesterday (19 February 2026), aged 91. RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley AM said George Mansford was a soldier’s soldier, a formidable leader and respected by all who knew him.

The RSL has received assurances that Australian war graves damaged in the war in Gaza will be repaired and restored as soon as it is safe to do so. More than 260 Australians mostly from World War One and primarily Light Horsemen killed in 1917, are buried or have their ashes interred at the Gaza War Cemetery.

The RSL congratulates the MPs appointed to the Federal Shadow Ministry, particularly those allocated the key Veterans’ Affairs, Defence, Defence Industry and Personnel and Sovereign Capability portfolios. The RSL is non-partisan and works with all sides of parliament in the best interests of veterans, Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and their families.