RSL WA

Today marks a momentous occasion for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide as they hand down their final report – signifying the end of the Commission’s inquiry. We would like to extend our appreciation to the Commissioners for their work and commitment to shine a light on issues that are detrimental to the health and wellbeing of the veteran and Defence community. The RSL is calling for an independent National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Wellbeing to lead implementation of the recommendations made by the Royal Commission and to ensure there is a sustained and permanent watch on the health and wellbeing of veterans, ex-serving ADF members, and their families. We stand ready to help inform, support, and deliver the Australian Government’s response to recommendations of the final report. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ghA9fMiy

On 18 August, memorial services were held across the country to commemorate 58 years since the Battle of Long Tan and Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. RSL WA Chief Executive Officer Stephen Barton, representing the State President Duncan Anderson, GAICD, attended the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Kings Park. The memorial service recognised the service and sacrifice of Australian personnel in one of our longest wars. Whatever the divisions at home, Australian servicemen and women did as their country asked them to do, serving with courage, endurance and humility. C.E.W Bean ended his Official History of the First World War with a reflection on the First AIF, "What these men did nothing can alter now... It rises, as it will always rise, above the mists of ages, a monument to great-hearted men; and for their nation a possession forever." The same can be said of the Australian men and women who served in Vietnam. The legacy of our Vietnam veterans is also found in RSL WA Sub-Branches across Western Australia, providing fellowship, camaraderie and advocacy for decades. It is also timely to reflect that not all Vietnam veterans felt welcomed by the RSL on their return home. RSL WA reaffirms that we stand for and welcome all veterans and their families, no matter the length or nature of their service.

We are pleased to present a certificate of appreciation to the Chevron Veterans' Network. This group was our top corporate fundraiser in the ANZAC Appeal, raising $12,370 for the delivery of veteran support services. Thank you for all that you do for WA veterans and their families. There are around 290 members in Chevron’s Veterans’ Network and approximately 45 who work in the company. Chevron also attends Career Expos to connect with veterans transitioning out of defence to network and offer guidance. In addition, Chevron is a proactive supporter of other Ex-Service Organisations, including Legacy WA, Working Spirit, and the Veterans Transition Centre.

Join us at the State War Memorial, Kings Park on Friday, 20 September from 2 pm to 2:45 pm to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Australian Defence Force service in Timor-Leste. This anniversary provides the opportunity to honour and remember the service of all Australian men and women who served in Timor-Leste and the sacrifice of their families. If you are unable to attend the service, the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs will broadcast a commemorative service from The Australian Peacekeeping Memorial in Canberra on Friday 20 September 2024.

RSL WA invites all Timor-Leste veterans and guests to join us for a night of mateship and camaraderie as we commemorate 25 years since the deployment of Australian service personnel in East Timor. This 25th anniversary provides the opportunity to honour and remember the service of all Australian men and women who served in Timor-Leste and the sacrifice of their families. When: Friday 20 September Time: 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Where: Cottesloe Civic Centre Dress: Smart Casual, miniature medals Tickets: $65 per person + booking fees (includes drink on arrival, canapes, food stations, live music, cash bar). This event is proudly supported by Cottesloe RSL Sub-Branch. To purchase a ticket, visit https://lnkd.in/ga-yRecR

Thank you to all who attended the Better Together Ball last Thursday night in collaboration with the 2024 Indian Ocean Defence & Security (IODS) Defence & Industry Dinner! Your participation helped us unite the Defence industry and Ex-Service Organisations in support of WA veterans and their families. Proceeds raised are shared between RSLWA, Legacy WA, and Police Legacy WA to progress life-changing support services. This was a sold out event with almost 900 people in attendance! Be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s Better Together Ball in August 2025. We would like to share a special thank you to our event sponsors, charity partners, the AMDA Foundation Limited, Defence West, and all who made this night possible.

RSL WA congratulates Mr Robert Mitchell from Highgate RSL Sub-Branch on being awarded the ANZAC of the Year Award 2024.   Mr Robert Mitchell CD receives this award in recognition of his 30 years of dedicated, committed, and selfless service to the RSL and wider veteran community and as a respected contributor and advisor to many communities/groups, including the Australian Army Museum, the Royal Australian Artillery Historical Society, the National Trust, the Royal United Services Institute, Scouts Australia, and the Rottnest Island Cultural Advisory Committee.   Robert Mitchell exemplifies the Spirit of ANZAC in the community through his dedication and commitment to the benefit of others. 

The RSLWA Annual Report 2023 is now available.   The Annual Report is a high-level update on the progress of RSLWA’s mission, strategic objectives, governance and more.   Read updates from our dedicated board members and committees as they enable veterans and their families to thrive through sustainable, relevant support and services.   The Annual Report 2023 is available to read here: https://lnkd.in/gsrxcC7H

This Monday! Join us and Working Spirit Ltd at the RSL Port Kennedy Career Expo to connect with our line-up of employers and explore your next career move. RCR Mining Technologies Ventia Saab Public Transport Authority Rokh Exploration and Equipment Disaster Relief Australia WA Police Force Civmec South Metro TAFE (DIVES) Austal Kinetic IT Date: Monday 22 July 2024 Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Location: Port Kennedy RSL Sub-Branch Register your attendance: https://lnkd.in/gqwQ3jBt This event is presented by RSLWA and Working Spirit Ltd Spirit in collaboration with Port Kennedy RSL Sub-Branch. We’re leaders in helping WA veterans navigate the transition out of defence to fulfilling civilian careers. Our career services extend to partners and children of ex-serving members. We also support veterans from Canada, the USA, the UK, and New Zealand who reside in Australia. Register on the Transition Employment Portal (TEP) to progress your career and find new opportunities. Completing your profile takes only about 20 minutes. Your profile is anonymous. This ensures that employers focus on your skills and experiences first. Visit www.tep.org.au to complete your profile and start your journey towards a purposeful career.