The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) Australian Forces Overseas Fund (AFOF) is celebrating its 60th anniversary next week (26 January 2026).
Through AFOF, the RSL raises funds to cover the cost of sending twice-yearly care packages to Australian Defence Force personnel serving overseas, acknowledging their commitment and the sacrifice they make on Australia’s behalf.
For the past 60 years, the RSL’s AFOF initiative has seen these small bundles of comfort carry snacks, letters, and a powerful message to the troops: ‘We’re thinking of you. Please come home safely’.
RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley said ADF personnel were currently serving in the Middle East, South Sudan, Egypt, and other overseas theatres, and the care packages from home are greatly appreciated by the service men and women.
“It's an enormous undertaking, only made possible by public donations and the work of volunteers who come together every six months to pack the care packages at the 39 Operational Support Battalion Randwick Barracks in Sydney,” Peter Tinley said.
“Since 1966, the RSL through AFOF has ensured that our Defence Force personnel serving abroad know they are remembered, supported, and appreciated by Australians at home.
“It’s a mission entirely dependent on the generosity of the public, through donations.
“AFOF’s 60-year anniversary is being celebrated this year with a spectacular 22-kilometre fund raising hike across the Main Range in Kosciuszko National Park on 13 February.
“RSL members will raise funds for AFOF to support Defence Force personnel serving overseas. The walkers are currently preparing for the hike, and each is seeking 60 donations to support our troops overseas.
“For example, 60 donations of $25 cover the cost of 60 care packages to be sent to Australians deployed overseas.”
Peter Tinley said The RSL packs and sends around 400 care packages overseas in the middle of the year and at Christmas.
“Each $25 donation provides one package, and donors can include a special tribute or message for the troops that will be displayed on the Supporters page on the RSL website.
“The public support is really welcomed by our service men and women, with many sending back heartfelt messages of appreciation.”
More information is available on the RSL Australia website at: rslaustralia.org/donate-afof and specific donations supporting the Main Range 60th Anniversary Walk in Kosciuszko National Park can also be made through the website.
Peter Tinley said the Australian Forces Overseas Fund was a small but powerful way to say thank you to Australian service men and women currently posted overseas, for their important service to our nation.
“AFOF has supported our Defence personnel for 60 years and the funds it receives will ensure that this continues on into the future,” he said.
