The RSL (Returned and Services League of Australia) is an organization that supports men and women who have served in the military or are currently serving in the military. There are over 18 500 members of the RSL, and the organization promises to ensure that programs are in place that offer care, compensation and commemoration to members.
However, some individuals are not entirely convinced that RSL clubs are honouring this commitment. RSL Clubs across the country have come under fire for failing to uphold their commitment to veterans. According Don Rowe, head of the RSL in New South Wales, the clubs are more interested in making money from gambling than catering to local veterans and offering them assistance.
As such, he believes that RSL branches should no longer be attached to pokie clubs, so they would be able to serve their original purpose. From 2011 to 2012, many RSL clubs across the country generated more than $20 million. However, less than 5% of these club members belong to the RSL and RSL members were not benefitting from the gambling and liquor profits generated by these venues.
''The clubs aren't serving our members,'' says Mr Rowe. “The clubs don't contribute to us or the welfare of veterans, that's for sure.'' Anthony Ball of Clubs NSW combats these claims. He states that RSL clubs make valuable contributions to local veterans that their assistance should not be down-played.
He is joined by Bryn Miller, chairman of the RSL and Services Clubs Association, who believes that RSL clubs do in fact honour their commitments to veterans. The issue is up for a fierce debate, especially as Anzac Day approaches. Many residents seem to support Rowe’s stance while gambling industry professionals back Clubs NSW.
It will be interesting to see how the situation pan out, and we will keep you posted with further developments.
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