The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) is working with RSL National, the peak body for RSLs across the country, in light of concerns raised by the media.

On 11 November 2016, the ABC reported that the ACNC had threatened to revoke the charity status of RSL NSW.

“Allegations of misconduct have been levelled against the RSL, however they are just allegations at this stage and are still under investigation by an independent organisation,” RSL’s new acting National President, Robbert Dick, told Third Sector. 

“The RSL approached the ACNC indicating that we are committed to working with them to ensure that the charity is protected and the ACNC is encouraged by our level of cooperation.”

ACNC Assistant Commissioner David Locke confirmed that the ACNC has written to RSL NSW to seek information.

“We receive approximately 60 concerns about charities per month, and we take them very seriously,” Locke said.

“Where required, we will contact the charity to request information to help with our enquiries.

“The secrecy provisions in the ACNC Act limit what we can say about compliance matters, however if we decide to take compliance action, which could potentially include the revocation of charity status, we will publish this on the Charity Register and on our website.”

Locke said he was encouraged by the level of cooperation shown by Dick.

“Dick and the RSL’s national body have shown that they are committed to working with the ACNC to ensure that the beneficiaries and assets of the charity are protected,” he said.

Dick outlined the next steps for the RSL.

“RSL National will work with closely with the ACNC over the coming weeks as they conduct an investigation into concerns that the league may not be meeting its obligations as a charity,” Dick said.

“We have also agreed to provide the ACNC with the interim report findings from the forensic investigation being undertaken by KordaMentha, and any additional supporting documentation to assist them with their inquiry into these matters.

“We will provide whatever information we can to the ACNC to ensure there is complete transparency during the course of the investigation.”

Dick told Third Sector The RSL and the ACNC met just last week and “will continue to keep the ACNC informed of developments as they come to light.”

He said the issues surrounding the RSL need to be resolved independently and swiftly so the organisation can continue with the work they “have been providing veterans and their families for the past 100 years.”