The Role and Objectives of the RSL
To serve the interests of its members, veterans, the ex-service community and members of the Australian Defence Force, the RSL executes its role by effectively implementing the following objectives which are in accord with the League's Mission Statement:
Welfare. Assistance to all veterans and ex-service men and women regardless of their membership in the Lea
gue. Participation in employment Programs for veterans, ex-service members and their dependants. Provision of a means for members to enjoy camaraderie and mateship. Provision of effective and efficient management of RSL assets and resources for the benefit of its members and serving members of the ADF. Act as an effective lobby group to Government and its departments. Provision of moral and active support for the ADF. Provision of a respected and meaningful voice within the community and Australian society. Promotion of loyalty and pride which the League has for the Nation, its people, the Crown and the Flag. Supporting the Australian Defence Force
RSL Standing Policy states that the primary objective of Australia's Defence and foreign policies should be to promote Australia's national security and safeguard Australia's vital interests. To meet such an objective, the RSL believes that Australia should maintain:
regular armed forces (Navy, Army and Air Force elements); to be of a size able to operate without additional forces in limited roles, and with additional forces in major roles either at home or overseas;
reserve forces (Navy, Army and Air Force elements); able to augment the regular forces, on callout able to undertake combat operations with minimum additional training, and able to be mobilised in times short of war;
cadet forces;
a national service scheme; in the form of military or civilian service to provide a reserve of trained and disciplined manpower;
a Defence industry; and
a national Defence infrastructure. RSL support points of particular significance are:
Defence policy should be above party politics. Because of its long term nature, major political parties must strive for agreement on Defence policy. The Defence vote should be progressively increased to be not less than 3.5% of the Gross National Product. The special nature of service in the ADF should be recognised by the provision of adequate housing and financial conditions of service for members and their families. The Navy, Army and Air Force Reserves must be active and essential components of the ADF.
