President’s Newsletter

2024: A Year in Review

The past year has been one of significant activity and endeavour for RSL Australia.  We've continued our mission to support current and former service personnel and their families, working hard to advocate for the evolving needs of today's veterans.

Key Highlights:

• Advocacy and Representation: We've consistently advocated for veterans' rights, including increased processing capacity for DVA claims and enhancement of interactions with healthcare providers, including a review of fee schedules. We’ve advocated for swift action in implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s Interim and Final Reports.  RSL Australia is now working through the details of the Government’s response with State Branches to identify how we can inform and support the implementation of recommendations, including ensuring that the voices of veterans and families shape the reforms ahead of us. The National Veterans’ Affairs Committee (NVAC) comprised of representatives from the RSL State Branches has played a pivotal role in aligning RSL policy. Our advocacy work is extensive and ongoing.  
  

• Defence and National Security: Our Defence and National Security Committee has actively engaged in critical discussions on Australia's defence industry and national security strategy, producing a range of submissions, papers and thought-provoking articles.
  

• National Initiatives: RSL launched a major research initiative to better understand the needs of contemporary veterans. The Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Scoping Study will commence in 2025. It will inform a broader study, which will examine the issues identified in much greater detail and recommend national strategies to improve the range and level of services and support provided to today’s veterans and their families. 
  The RSL Active national program has provided opportunities for the veteran community to connect at many events throughout the year.

  RSL Australia has continued to support deployed personnel by providing care packages at Anzac Day and Christmas.
  We continued our commitment to our scholarship programs.
  A continued partnership with the Japanese Government will see the Japan-Australia Grassroots Exchange Program run again in 2025, promoting healing for descendants of prisoners of war.

• Commemoration: We've honoured our veterans through significant commemorations, including the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste and the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Pleasingly, we saw increasing numbers of young Australians join us in observing Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.

Thank You to Our Volunteers
We extend our deepest gratitude to our volunteers who tirelessly support veterans and their families. The League depends on your support, and your efforts are greatly appreciated.

Looking Ahead to 2025
As we embark on a new year, RSL Australia remains committed to our core purpose of advocating for and serving our veterans and their families. We invite you to stay connected with us through our website, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Best wishes for the holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Sincerely,
Greg Melick
RSL Australia National President

Upcoming Commemorations

20 December - Last troops evacuated from Gallipoli (1915)

31 December – Conclusion of Operation SLIPPER, Afghanistan (2014)

1 January – Commonwealth of Australia proclaimed (1901)

8 January - Last Australian servicemen returned from Korea (1958)

11 January – Official cessation of hostilities in Vietnam by Australian forces (1973)

17 January - Operation Desert Storm commenced (1991)