The Liberal Party has promised to almost triple the amount of funding for the RSL’s crucial employment program, which last year helped South Australian veterans earn close to $4 million of income after retiring from service.
Port Lincoln RSL Sub-Branch president Gary Clough said he was not sure how much that would affect places like Port Lincoln.
“I’m sure it’s great in some areas but most of the people come off the land and go back to land in the rural areas like this,” he said.
“We’re more focused on the welfare systems down here – only about 4 per cent of ex-servicemen and women in South Australia and Northern Territory actually join the RSL on return, they just don’t realise the services and benefits that RSL offers.
“I recommend the other 96 per cent have a chat, come and see what RSL can do for them.”
The Liberal Party promise and policy for the 2026 state election was anticipated to cost $400,000, a contribution of $100,000 over four years to replace funding cut by the federal government.
The RSL Employment Program, free to all veterans and their families, links veterans and ex-serving defence members with meaningful employment opportunities.
