THE NSW Government has passed significant legislative amendments to enable RSL NSW sub-Branches across the State to improve their governance and accountability.

Following the passing of the Bill on Tuesday, amendments have been made to the RSL NSW Act 2018 which will see RSL NSW sub-Branches who are looking to reconstitute as companies limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act 2001, be exempted from duties that would be otherwise paid during the process of incorporation.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

Minister for Finance and Employee Relations Damien Tudehope said the RSL NSW Amendment Bill 2022 will greatly assist in improving the governance and transparency of sub-Branches.

“We have removed a major barrier for RSL NSW sub-Branches to pursue the process of incorporation and this will greatly assist them in their operations, by modernising and achieving an enduring governance structure, where assets and property are not tied to individual members,” Mr Tudehope said.

RSL NSW President Ray James said these changes would have a positive impact on the operations of the sub-Branches and is encouraging the sub-Branches of the RSL NSW to incorporate.

“The passage of this amendment further demonstrates that the NSW Government is responsive to the needs of RSL NSW and its members,” Mr James said.

“The new laws will ensure that the RSL can focus its charitable funds on supporting veterans and their families.”

The new laws will reduce considerable expenses for sub-Branches of RSL NSW, allowing the focus to be placed on supporting returned servicewomen and men.

“The NSW Government is committed to continuing to drive changes to ensure our veterans receive the best available support.

“If sub-Branches pursued the process of incorporation without this amendment, it could significantly deplete cash reserves, which in turn hinders charitable operations and support for local commemorations,” Mr Tudehope said.

The Government has also recently lodged its submission to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which acknowledged the enhanced role that RSL NSW and its sub-Branches could play in the future to provide localised supports for our servicemen and servicewomen transitioning to civilian life.

By Tara CAMPBELL