The Community Mission of Australian RSL Clubs
The Returned Services League of Australia was founded in 1916 to support Australian veterans returning from World War I. More than a century later, that core mission remains central to what RSL clubs do — even as the clubs have grown into major community and entertainment venues. Understanding this mission helps explain why RSL clubs occupy such a unique place in Australian culture.
Direct Support for Veterans
RSL clubs and the broader RSL network provide a wide range of direct support services to current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their families. This support includes:
Welfare and Advocacy
- Case workers and welfare officers: Many RSL sub-branches employ or volunteer dedicated welfare officers who assist veterans in navigating the complex DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) system.
- Claims assistance: Help with lodging disability compensation claims, accessing rehabilitation services, and understanding entitlements.
- Pension and financial support: Guidance on accessing veteran-specific pensions, allowances, and emergency financial assistance.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
The RSL network is deeply involved in veteran mental health support, including:
- Partnerships with Open Arms (Veterans and Families Counselling) to promote mental health services
- Peer support programs connecting veterans with others who have shared experiences
- Regular social events designed to combat isolation and maintain a sense of belonging
- Awareness campaigns around PTSD, transition challenges, and help-seeking
ANZAC Day and Commemorative Events
ANZAC Day on 25 April remains the most significant day in the RSL calendar. RSL sub-branches across Australia organise dawn services, marches, and commemorative events in virtually every town and suburb. These events:
- Honour the memory of those who served and died in all conflicts
- Educate younger generations about Australia's military history
- Provide a focal point for veteran community gathering
- Raise funds through the sale of poppies and badges for RSL welfare programs
Community Grants and Charitable Giving
Under Australian gaming legislation, a portion of the revenue generated by licensed gaming machines at RSL clubs must be directed to community benefit purposes. This means that every time someone plays pokies at a local RSL, a portion of that revenue flows back into the community.
Typical community grant recipients include:
- Local sporting clubs and school programs
- Emergency services and volunteer organisations
- Disability and aged care services
- Local arts, cultural, and heritage groups
- Veterans' memorials and historical preservation projects
Supporting Veteran Families
The RSL's support extends to the families of veterans, recognising the unique challenges faced by those who live alongside serving and returned personnel. Programs for families include:
- Family welfare check-ins and referral services
- Inclusion in commemorative events and club activities
- Access to club facilities and support networks during deployment periods
How Club Members Contribute
When you join an RSL club, pay your annual membership fee, dine at the bistro, or attend a club event, you are directly contributing to this community mission. The revenue generated by clubs funds their welfare programs, sub-branch operations, and community grants — making every member an active participant in supporting Australian veterans.
Getting Involved
If you'd like to contribute beyond membership, most RSL sub-branches welcome volunteers to assist with commemorative events, welfare visits, and community programs. Contact your local RSL club or sub-branch to find out how you can get involved.
The commercial side of RSL clubs — the bistros, bars, gaming rooms, and entertainment — exists to fund something far greater: a century-old commitment to the men and women who served Australia, and to the communities they returned to.