‍

Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

‍

President’s Update

‍

National

‍

Recent positive progress by RSL Australia has been overshadowed in recent weeks by the progress of work being undertaken by the Office of the Special Investigator (OSI). I wish to draw attention to the positives; there is so much more than not.  

Under a Bamboo Sky is a documentary that uses technology to bring to life the stories of the Second World War prisoners, from Changi to Japan. Proudly supported by RSL Australia, this premiered recently in Canberra. Please take time to take in this immensely stirring undertaking, we must never forget this dark chapter in our history: https://www.underabamboosky.com/

RSL Australia and member jurisdictions from around Australia met in Canberra in late March. A series of events showcased to leaders in Canberra in strength and reach of the RSL. This also allowed for an opportunity to align jurisdictions, to truly represent ‘Better Together’. I am proud to report that RSL WA supported this critical endeavour, and we all look forward to its next iteration.  

‍

OSI

‍

Our support for veterans and their families is unwavering. Moreover, we should never forget the 10’s of thousands of men and women who served with distinction in Afghanistan. Further, the RSL wholly supports the judicial process. Let’s never forget that our service has been to support the judiciary and democracy more broadly. We continue to support all veterans and their families; this matter has been dragging for too long and must be ended.  

State

‍

The Board of RSL WA met on 2 April. As always, the meeting was productive with positive progress. Anzac Day preparations are well advanced across Western Australia. The Board recognised the immense work being undertaken at all levels to commemorate this auspicious day. I am confident it will be a success and collectively we will represent the very best of service throughout our community.  

The Board paused to discuss emerging challenges in RSL Sub-Branches in eastern jurisdictions. While there are no signs of challenges in WA, we must be alive to what has occurred, why it has occurred and critically, what we must do to reduce the risk of wrongdoing in WA. Many Sub-Branches have been contacted with requests to provide their returns to RSL WA. This ‘light-touch’ approach strives to alert to emerging problems; for those in positions of leadership, please ensure your AGM minutes and financials are submitted to admin@rslwa.org.au. Sub-Branch patrons stand ready to assist where needed.  

‍

Final thoughts

‍

Anzac Day is upon us. I am proud to do my part in commemoration as we collectively pause to reflect on what has made Australia the ‘lucky country’.  

All the best.

‍

‍

‍

‍Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSL WA

‍

‍

CEO’s Update

‍

At the time of writing, we are just wrapping up our Anzac Appeal in the Perth CBD. While we don't know yet how much money we raised, the support from the ADF was tremendous. I do need to acknowledge the sheer size of the navy contingent, which seems to grow in strength every year. It is hugely appreciated.

‍

(27 of them decided to sign up for membership!)

‍

It was fantastic to see the interactions between the community and the Defence members. In contrast to some other capital cities, Defence is often out of site and out of mind in Perth. There are very few opportunities for Defence members to engage with the public and in such an overwhelming positive way. Today also reminded me of the regard that RSL is held in- such goodwill must be carefully protected and nourished.

‍

I would also like to thank our other volunteers - your cheerful commitment is inspiring.

‍

With the Appeal behind us, the sole focus is on Anzac Day. To those Sub-Branches running services, I wish you good luck, knowing you'll do the League proud.

‍

Finally, onto some housekeeping. Could I please remind Committees to use the RSL WA email addresses? It's exceedingly difficult to keep track of personal email addresses when positions change, and it also presents a range of privacy issues.  I'm also mindful that you may miss important pieces of information.

‍

‍

Stephen Barton

CEO, RSL WA

‍

‍

Veteran Services Monthly Update

‍

Damien Roper – Veteran Services Manager

‍

At times we don’t hear from a veteran in need of support until they are in an absolute crisis. When we enquire about why it took so long to call us they will talk about feelings of shame in needing the support in the first place, that their life in service taught them to keep pushing through until they found a solution, or the sense that other veterans were in a worse spot and more deserving of support.

‍

We have at times countered that with the enquiry of thinking back to their time in service could they recollect a time they were given a job to do or sent on deployment as a solo mission. Of course, the reply is always never. In fact, one of the cornerstones of service is learning to think, plan and enact those plans as a team, drawing on expertise and support as needed. It’s one of the reasons ADF veterans are so sought after in the civilian workforce.

‍

We invite veterans to consider support services as part of their new team. And not just the team at RSL WA, but also Sub-Branches, values-aligned partner agencies and other stakeholders like family and friends. When we tap into those support networks early, what we’re trying to achieve becomes more achievable.

‍

As an example, we heard from a veteran who had been evicted from their housing a while ago. They said they were literally standing on the street with their belongings at their feet. We secured temporary accommodation and then started a wider conversation about how they ended up in this situation.  

‍

It was no fault of their own; however, they did receive an eviction notice several weeks ago. We asked why they hadn’t called then, and their response was that they thought they could work something out and find their own resolution. For us this meant that instead of negotiating with their landlord, supporting the veteran to clear rent arrears or address any other issues, we were instead looking for crisis accommodation. And more stable accommodation became a medium to long term strategy.

‍

We worked with the veteran to tap into their own networks (family and friends) and provided the contact details of their local Sub-Branch.  

‍

It turned out that another member of that Sub-Branch had a granny flat that he was using as storage, and having recently retired could do with both some rental income and the company. It all turned out for the best but would never have happened if the veteran decided he needed to keep struggling in isolation.

‍

Contact us at welfare@rslwa.org.au.          

‍

‍

‍

Goldsworthy Centre update

‍

Janine Gardner – Goldsworthy Centre Manager  

‍

Progress at the Goldsworthy Centre may not yet be visible from the street, but behind the walls, significant work is well underway.  

‍

On the ground, momentum is building. RSL WA, Orixon, our builders and Bluerock Projects meet regularly to drive the project forward. Demolition is complete, and preliminary works for mechanical, hydraulic and electrical services are now underway, alongside early interior painting.  

‍

As with any older building, peeling back the layers has revealed its share of surprises – but each challenge is met and each obstacle cleared.  

‍

That spirit of quiet determination is one we share with the man whose name this centre will carry.  

‍

Leon Goldsworthy was rejected by the Royal Australian Navy. Too small, they said. Too slight. Not enough. He heard those words, and he came back anyway. He wasn't the largest presence in the room – he was the most resolute. He didn't push through because it was easy. He pushed through because it mattered.

‍

The Goldsworthy Veterans + Families Centre will be built in that same spirit.

‍

RSL WA carries his name not as decoration, but as a commitment – a promise to every veteran and every family who walks through those doors that they will be seen and supported.

‍

‍

‍

Cadet of the Year Awards

This year's Cadet of the Year Awards recognised the outstanding commitment, character and service shown by young Australians across our cadet community.  

Congratulations to the recipients of this year's awards!

Unit Efficiency Awards:

Navy Cadets: T.S. Vancouver, Albany

Army Cadets: 515 Busselton

Airforce Cadets: 701 Squadron, Bullsbrook

Certificate of Excellence:

Army CDT SGT Talita Deale & CDT SGT Caitlyn Willis

Airforce CDT SGT Jack Halley & CWOFF Troy Dix

Bronze Surf Cadet William Rea

Bill Collidge Community Spirit Trustees Award:

Airforce Cadet Sergeant Jack Erickson  

Army Cadet WO2 Mitchell Belton  

Navy Cadet LS Ava Kemp-Macaulay

Cadets WA Harry Bydder

‍

Bill Collidge Spirit of Anzac Cadet of the Year Award:

Navy Cadet Chief Petty Officer Charli Wright

Army Cadet Sergeant Aqsa Khan

Air Force Cadet Sergeant Juliette Hawthorn

Police Rangers RFC Charlotte Tooby

Spirit of Anzac Bravery Award:

Austin Appelbee

These awards reflect the values that define service, courage, duty, and a commitment to something greater than oneself. Each recipient has demonstrated those qualities in a way that honours the spirit of Anzac and strengthens our community.

‍

RSL WA congratulates all award recipients and thanks the families, instructors, and unit commanders whose support makes this achievement possible.

‍

‍

Defence Estate Divestment update

‍

Update from RSL Australia:

‍

The Senate Committee inquiry into the Management of Defence estate assets has a deadline: submissions must be received by 17 April 2026.

‍

It's a tight turnaround, and RSL Australia is moving fast.

‍

We are working directly with RSL State and Territory Branches to build a unified submission that reflects the views of our entire network. The contributions many of you shared over recent weeks are being incorporated into that submission. Your input is shaping what we put to the Committee.

‍

RSL Australia is committed to holding the Government to account on this.

‍

The decision to divest 67 Defence estate sites, the most significant reform to the Defence estate in Australian history, must be accompanied by genuine transparency and proper community consultation.

‍

We intend to make that case clearly.

‍

We'll keep you updated on our social channels and through the President's Newsletter. Not signed up yet? rslaustralia.org/presidents-newsletter

‍

‍

RSL Australia welcomes new ADF leadership appointments

‍

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has welcomed the announcement on 13 April 2026 of senior leadership changes in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), to take effect from July 2026.

‍

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.

‍

RSL Australia National President, Peter Tinley AM said the appointments reflected the exceptional calibre of leadership within the Australian Defence Force.

‍

"We congratulate Vice Admiral Hammond, Lieutenant General Coyle and Rear Admiral Buckley on these well-deserved appointments,” Peter Tinley said.

‍

RSL Australia looks forward to working alongside them in our shared commitment to the men and women of the ADF and the veteran community.

‍

"Lieutenant General Coyle's appointment as the first woman to command the Australian Army in its 125-year history is a proud milestone. Her appointment is a testament to a career defined by exceptional service, leadership and dedication to our nation."

‍

RSL Australia has also paid tribute to the outgoing Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, and Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC, for their distinguished service.

‍

“Both have served Australia with distinction, and we thank them for their contribution to national defence in very difficult times. We wish them well in their future endeavours and offer them membership of the RSL on their exit from the ADF,” Peter Tinley said.

‍

‍

Anzac Day 2026

‍

Anzac Day events are coming up fast with 7 events in the City of Perth and events at 70+ locations around Western Australia. Visit the Anzac Day page on the RSL WA website to read the latest event updates.  

‍

All-Abilities Sunset Service

‍

Date: Friday 24 April 2026

Time: 5:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Location: Flame of Remembrance, Kings Park & Botanic Garden

• Assisted listening available! Contact events@rslwa.org.au to connect with this service.

• Auslan interpreted event.  

‍

Dawn Service

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 5:45 am – 7:00 am

Location: State War Memorial, Kings Park & Botanic Garden

• Road closures in place, public transport highly encouraged. CCP parking is available outside the road closures. Vehicles inside the closure areas may be towed.  

• Contact events@rslwa.org.au for ACROD parking in Kings Park. Limited parking is available. Must provide a valid ACROD Parking Permit to secure parking.  

• Auslan interpreting available.

‍

Gunfire Breakfast

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 7:00 am – 9:00 am

Location: Government House Gardens

• Breakfast and coffee will be available for a donation (limited servings available).  

‍

The March (Perth)

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Location: St Georges Terrace Perth

• Assisted listening available! Contact events@rslwa.org.au to connect with this service.  

• Road closures in place, public transport highly encouraged. CCP parking is available outside the road closures. Vehicles inside the closure areas may be towed.  

• Groups and bands must register to participate (information below).

• The Order of March and Form-Up will be released in March.

‍

Cathedral Service

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 11:00 am – 11:50 am

Location: St Georges Cathedral

• Limited free tickets are now available! Get in quick! Available on the RSL WA website!

‍

Anzac House

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm

Location: Anzac House, 28 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000

• Limited venue capacity. It’s first-in, first-served!

• RSL WA member discounts are not available on Anzac Day due to public holiday rates.  

‍

Mateship Lane

‍

Date: Saturday 25 April 2026

Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: Irwin Street, Perth WA 6000

• Live entertainment from 11:00 am– 3:00 pm  

• Licenced area  

• Two-up  

• Food options available for purchase

‍

Event Security:

In the City of Perth there will be random bag and screening checks in place for prohibited items. Prohibited items include large bags, weapons and other dangerous items. To ensure the safety and security of all involved in Anzac Day events, CCTV monitoring will be in effect. RSL WA coordinates with WA Police to ensure optimal security throughout Anzac Day events around Western Australia.

‍

Sub-Branch Information:

If your Sub-Branch is coordinating an event for Anzac Day 2026, please take a moment to read over the key information below that will assist with your planning.  

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our events team at events@rslwa.org.au.  

‍

‍

Local Council:

If you are holding an event on Anzac Day at your local Sub-Branch you may be required to obtain a Public Event Permit from your local council. A Public Event means any single, one-off event, either indoor or outdoor where people assemble for a common purpose. This includes Anzac Day.

‍

RSL WA suggests reaching out to your local council as early as possible to start these planning discussions. Some local councils require a minimum of 3 months’ notice. Additional items that require approval include but not limited to:

‍

• Road closure and traffic management

• Food and beverage catering  

• Structures and facilities

‍Liquor Licence

RSL clubs who hold a club or club restricted licence may apply to trade between 6:00 am and 12 midday on Anzac Day to sell and supply liquor to either members and guests or to non-members.  

‍

To apply for your One-Off Extended Trading Permit, you can do this via Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. For further information on extended trading permits visit here: Extended trading permits  

‍

For details on lodging your application visit here: One-off Extended Trading Permit | DLGSC

Event Templates

Anzac Portal offers several resources and templates to support your events, including suggested Order of Service and sample speech.  

Anzac Day Kitbag for hosting an event - Anzac Portal

‍

Share your Anzac Day event details with the RSL WA State Branch to advertise

RSL WA State Branch would like to hear from you with all your event details for Anzac Day so we can advertise on our website to the public. Please fill out the form below to share your event details with us.  

Event Listing - Anzac Day 2026

‍

Registration details for the March

Register for the Perth CBD March using the form below:

March Individual Participation Form - Anzac Day 2026

‍

Volunteer at Perth CBD events

RSL WA is recruiting volunteers to assist with event delivery at the Perth CBD events, including the Gunfire Breakfast and the March.  

‍

Be part of our Anzac Day events and contribute in various capacities to support veterans and their families. Volunteering is a vital way to help us make a positive difference and engage with the local community on Anzac Day.  

‍

We understand that many Sub-Branches conduct their own events on Anzac Day; if you have availability or have friends or family that are interested, please pass on these details.  

‍

Roles include but not limited to

• Ushers

• March Marshalls  

• Food & Beverage attendants  

• Setup and pack down crew

‍

A volunteer briefing will take place on at Anzac House in April.  

‍

If you are interested in volunteering and assisting State Branch, please complete the below form from our website. We look forward to welcoming you to the team.  

‍

RSL Western Australia | Become a Volunteer

‍

‍

‍

2027 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour

‍

The competition for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour opens on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.

‍

The Premier’s Anzac Student Tour will travel to Auckland, New Zealand in April 2027: https://www.education.wa.edu.au/premiers-anzac-student-tour

‍

Accompanied by 3 supervisors, the group of 10 students will depart for the 7-day tour in April school holidays 2027.

‍

The unique 2027 program gives students the opportunity to explore the Anzac legacy and the contributions of those who served in the armed forces in all wars. As well as to commemorate the 109th anniversary of the end of the First World War, the 82nd anniversary of the end of the Second World War, and participate in an Anzac Day service.

‍

This annual competition is open to all Western Australian students in Years 8 to 11. Students from public and private schools across the state can submit entries for the chance to be selected for this prestigious experience

‍

‍

110th State Congress

‍

State Congress and the Annual General Meeting will be held over two days again. On Friday 26 June 2026 we invite Sub-Branches to Anzac House to celebrate our Award Presentations, and on Saturday 27 June RSL WA’s State Congress and Annual General Meeting will take place on Level 5 at Anzac House.  

Details will be sent shortly; if you need to update your Sub-Branch contact details, please contact admin@rslwa.org.au.  

Sub-Branch committees will be advised of the 110th State Congress program guide, including Agenda Item Submissions and Delegate Proxy nomination forms shortly. If you do not receive the email, please contact admin@rslwa.org.au.

Motions will be reviewed by the Constitution Committee prior to submission to the Board of Directors. Handwritten or unclear motions/submissions will not be accepted and the sender so advised.

1. Agenda Item Submission – due by 1 May 2026

2. Delegate/Proxy Observer Nomination Form – due by 29 May 2026

‍

‍

Stay connected with the Anzac Club

Don’t miss what’s happening!

‍

Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram where the Anzac Club shares photos and highlights from recent events, behind-the-scenes moments, seasonal specials and updates from around the building.

‍

You can also subscribe to the Anzac Club's monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about new offerings, event space features and everything coming up at Anzac Club.

‍

‍

‍

Job Ready: Veterans' Employment Support

Unlock new opportunities with Job Ready Support.  

‍

RSL WA and Working Spirit are committed to supporting veterans and their family members on their career journey. If you are looking at transitioning out of the ADF or are a veteran seeking assistance with your career journey, our employment consultants can support veterans with the following:

• Career advice and navigation

• Translating military experience

• Crafting effective CVs and cover letters

• Accessing training programs

There is no cost for ADF veterans and their families.  

‍

To access these services, please fill in the form on our website: rslwa.org.au/services/employment

‍

‍

‍

UPCOMING EVENTS

‍

Gin Dinner: A Journey Through Local Botanicals - Featuring Billy Stitch Distillery

‍

Date: Friday 5 June 2026

Time: 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm  

Location: Anzac House, Level 6 Squadron Room

‍

This special gin dinner features a carefully curated four-course menu, with each course thoughtfully paired with Billy Stitch gins, complemented by mixers and garnishes that highlight the unique character of the botanicals in every pour.

‍

Get tickets here.  

‍

‍

‍

Lost & Found

‍

A number of lost items – including a belt buckle and medals – have been handed in to the concierge at Anzac House. If you think some of these items might be yours, please visit the Concierge Desk.

‍

‍

‍

‍