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Download PDF version of the Sub-Branch Signal

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President’s Update

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National

The National office has leant in heavily to commentary on key issues impacting veterans and families across Australia. Significant effort has been directed to ensuring considered and timely communication is provided. Matters covered recently include:

• Defence Estate

• 2026/27 Federal Budget

• Afghanistan Allegations

• Advocates and unscrupulous providers

• Medicinal Cannabis

• War graves in Gaza

I encourage subscription to the National Presidents Newsletter. This timely correspondence provides an excellent resource where people can hear directly on the challenges, direction and aspirations for the League across Australia.

During March key leaders from across Australia will converge on Canberra. There are several objectives for this, the key being to set frameworks for how jurisdictions can improve interoperability. This is an outstanding development and further evidence of the continued improvement of collaboration across Australia.  

State

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The Board of RSL WA met on 5 March 2026. As always, a busy, varied agenda was presented with positive progress across all areas. Highlights were progress in the development of programs to support veterans and families and great work in the lead up to Anzac Day. Additionally, it was pleasing to see positive progress with membership. A large number of members have adopted the electronic payment methods with around 1,000 members now being individually contacted to process payments. This remains a key focus and an immense body of work; thank you to everyone who has assisted our team.  

An emerging theme is the alignment of the RSL with Defence Industry. Many will be aware that significant investment is flowing into Defence Industry in Western Australia. There is significant pressure on all stakeholders to deliver outcomes ranging from infrastructure, technology and people. This undertaking can only be delivered in the timeframe required, through all parties doing their part. The RSL and its connection to people is a key enabler in this endeavour. It is an exciting challenge to be a part of, one we should be alive to in all we do.  

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Final thoughts

With the sudden deteriorating global security environment our motto is as relevant now as ever. I ask everyone to reflect on ‘the price of liberty is eternal vigilance’ and what role individuals, groups and the institution of the RSL can play. Let's do our part and let's do it well as we have always done.  

All the best.

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‍Duncan Anderson‍

State President, RSL WA

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CEO’s Update

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Anzac Day March

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April is rapidly approaching and our planning for Anzac Day is well underway. Some of you, through your groups and associations, will have seen that when registering for the Anzac Day March, Western Australia Police have requested the names of participants.

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We’ve had a variety of responses, ranging from ‘no problem’, ‘how dare they’, ‘State Branch has zero idea what they’re doing’ through to ‘totally impractical’. We recognise that people may not know who will march until the day, we understand the limitations – but best endeavours is all we ask.

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Western Australian Police have made the request – we wouldn’t be asking for it if they hadn’t. They are an important stakeholder for Anzac Day, and we want to be as helpful as possible.

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Fifteen people were murdered in a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach; there was a near miss in Perth on Australia Day. Suffice to say, we’re going to listen seriously to any request from WAPOL around security. It's not our role to second guess.

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For some time, security agencies have warned about the threat level for Anzac Day. It's depressing that this is so, but we are confident police and other agencies have the matter in hand.

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Dress Codes

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We are currently reviewing the Code of Conduct with a view to inserting some wording on dress codes. From time to time, we get complaints around what people wear in a Sub-Branch and – god forbid – a commemorative service.

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It’s a reminder that we are ambassadors not just of the League, but of veterans more broadly. How we present ourselves is a reflection on our entire service and ex-service community.

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We not going to try and enforce Victoria Barracks Officers’ Mess standards (before it's sold off to a developer) and we’re not the Weld Club, but we are service based organisation, and dress and bearing is important.

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The purpose of Sub-Branches

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Last year at the Committee Conference, when I was briefing what the operations team was doing against the strategic plan, I receive some pointed questions about the purpose of the RSL. In a little bit of back and forth, the Committee member, among other things, said the Objects of the League in our Constitution gave him the best guide as to our purpose.

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It’s a good point and salutary reminder. Page 10 of our Constitution lays out our Objects. The simple summary is we are here to support, care and assist serving and ex-ADF personnel and their dependents and to assist in the preservation of the memory of service. It informs our values of camaraderie, care, advocacy and commemoration.

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Keen-eyed observes will note, our Objects don’t mention members or Sub-Branches. Membership and Sub-Branches are how we achieve those Objects.

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Sub-Branches are at the beating heart of the League – they are priceless assets that are forces for good in the veteran community and beyond. However, we recognise, that through size and membership, not all Sub-Branches can tick every box when it comes to our Objects. There are some Sub-Branches, for example, with a very small membership base, whose sole focus is the delivery of Anzac Day or Remembrance Day services. That should never be underestimated or downplayed. It’s vital work.

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Equally, on occasion, we’ve received some pushback from Sub-Branches when we’ve asked for help with a welfare matter. We’re also aware of Sub-Branches, that are vibrant centres for their communities, often with many social members and a thriving bar, who, from our records, don’t appear to run much of a Poppy or Anzac appeal. They’re an asset to their local community but not necessarily ticking all the boxes when it comes to our Objects.

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As Anzac Day approaches, it is worth reflecting on our Objects and reminding ourselves why we are here.

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Stephen Barton

CEO, RSL WA

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Veteran Services Monthly Update

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Damien Roper – Veteran Services Manager

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In February we supported 23 veterans who found themselves in some hardship, with more than half of these disclosing some kind of mental health distress. As a part of our commitment to supporting veterans, we’re very pleased to announce a partnership with GROW. The Grow Program is a mental health support program based on lived experience. This means Grow groups are a meeting of peers, who are striving to develop and maintain good mental health.

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The standard Grow program has been adapted to be specifically designed to work with veterans and will be co-facilitated by the RSL WA Welfare and Wellbeing Lead, Brendan. We will be running a one-day group at the end of May and at the end of that session there will be an opportunity for the group to continue with extra meets if participants think it would be beneficial. For more information on Grow go to: www.grow.org.au

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If you know of a veteran that might find some peer support within a recovery focused program, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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In the meantime, if we can support your Sub-Branch with your welfare and wellbeing needs, please don’t hesitate to contact Brendan or Damien at welfare@rslwa.org.au

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Goldsworthy Centre update

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Janine Gardner – Goldsworthy Centre Manager  

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The Goldsworthy Centre project is continuing to move forward, and we are excited to share our latest update with the veteran community.

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We are pleased to announce that our builders have now been formally contracted, with Orixon coming on board to deliver the construction works. Orixon is a well-regarded building company known for its commitment to quality construction, strong project management and delivering projects that meet both community and client expectations. Their experience and professionalism give us great confidence as we move into the next stage of the project.

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We are in the final stages of completing our building plans, architectural drawings, and permits – and once these are locked in, internal works are set to begin within the next few weeks. This is a moment we have all been looking forward to.  

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Behind the scenes, the work continues. We are carefully selecting furnishings and putting the finishing touches on the range of services and programs that will be on offer – all designed with one goal in mind: to create a space that is welcoming, calm, friendly and genuinely valuable for our veteran community and their families.

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There is still plenty to come, and we cannot wait to bring you along for the journey. Stay tuned for regular updates as the Goldsworthy Centre continues to take shape over the coming months.

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Anzac Day 2026

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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.  

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All-Abilities Sunset Service

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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.  

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Dawn Service

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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.

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Gunfire Breakfast

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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).  

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The March (Perth)

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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.

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Cathedral Service

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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!

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Anzac House

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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.  

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Mateship Lane

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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

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Event Security:

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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.

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Sub-Branch Information:

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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.  

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Local Council:

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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

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‍Liquor Licence

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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

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Event Templates

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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

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

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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

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Registration details for the March

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Register for the Perth CBD March using the forms below:

March Individual Participation Form - Anzac Day 2026

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Volunteer at Perth CBD events

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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

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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

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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 15 April 2026

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

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Veterans’ Fund Scholarships – Study in the United States

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Applications are now open for the 2026 Australia to USA Veterans’ Scholarships through the American Australian Association. This program supports honourably discharged Australian Defence Force veterans to undertake one year of full-time undergraduate or graduate study at any accredited university in the United States, in any field of study.

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Successful applicants can receive up to US$40,000 to help cover travel, tuition, living expenses and other study-related costs.  

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Applications close March 31.

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Learn more and apply: americanaustralian.org/scholarships/veterans-fund/  

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Stay connected with the Anzac Club

Don’t miss what’s happening!

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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.

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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.

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Job Ready: Veterans' Employment Support

Unlock new opportunities with Job Ready Support.  

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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.  

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

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UPCOMING EVENTS

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Harmony Week Celebration

Date: Friday 20 March 2026  

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Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm  

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Location: Anzac Club, Level 1 Club Bar & Restaurant

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Join Anzac Club as we celebrate Harmony Week together and celebrate our vibrant community. Enjoy a special Lunch Offer for $49, including: main, dessert, house wine/beer or soft drink.

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Eastern Regional Bassendean RSL: Veterans information session  

Date: Saturday 28 March 2026

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Time: 4:00 pm  

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Location: Eastern Regional RSL, 10 Kenny St Bassendean

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Discussions include services from DVA, Services Australia, National Disability Insurance Scheme and WA Government.  To reserve your spot, please email easternregional.secretary@sb.rslwa.org.au  

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Lost & Found

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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.

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