RSL Australia has been awarded the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for 2026, recognising its contribution to reconciliation and friendship between Australia and Japan through the Grassroots Exchange Program.
RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley AM formally accepted the honour at the Japanese Embassy in Canberra on Tuesday 13 October, acknowledging the veterans, families and RSL members who have helped build understanding between the two nations.
The commendation, awarded by Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, recognises the RSL's longstanding contribution to strengthening bilateral relations through the Grassroots Exchange Program.
Established in 1997, the Program has enabled approximately 140 former Australian prisoners of war, their descendants and RSL representatives to visit Japan as guests of the Japanese Government.
The visits have provided opportunities for dialogue, remembrance and reconciliation, helping to build mutual understanding following the suffering experienced by Australian prisoners of war during the Second World War.
Around 22,000 Australians were taken prisoner by Japanese forces during the war, with more than 8,000 never returning home.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Tinley acknowledged the courage required on both sides to confront this difficult history.
"Reconciliation is one of the hardest things two nations can attempt. It can't be signed into existence. It is built by people who choose, one at a time, to face the past without being ruled by it," Mr Tinley said.
"To the Government and people of Japan: you did not ask our veterans to forget. You listened. You welcomed them with openness and kindness, and gave them the chance to honour their fallen comrades."
A lasting legacy of reconciliation
The recognition comes as the Grassroots Exchange Program concludes in 2026, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Co-operation between Australia and Japan.
In a letter to Mr Tinley, Japanese Ambassador to Australia SUZUKI Kazuhiro praised the RSL's sustained commitment to the Program and its role in strengthening relations between the two countries.
The Ambassador acknowledged the foundations of trust, understanding and friendship established through the exchanges, describing their legacy as a lasting testament to reconciliation and mutual respect.
Mr Tinley said that while the Program was coming to an end, its impact would continue to shape the relationship between Australia and Japan.
"The Program may end, but what it built will not. It is part of the reason Australia and Japan stand together today as Special Strategic Partners," he said.
"We will always remember what was suffered. Thanks to this Program, we will also remember what was healed."
RSL Australia extends its sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for this recognition and for their enduring commitment to reconciliation, remembrance and friendship.
Peter Tinley AM's acceptance speech can be read in full here.
