National RSL head backs call to stop veterans charity name being used on pokies venues

The RSL charity separated from clubs when NSW’s liquor laws were reformed in the 1970s. The clubs and the not-for-profit RSL remained closely affiliated. Photograph: Benjamin Crone/Alamy

The national head of the Returned and Services League of Australia has backed a push to stop licensed clubs from using the RSL letters in their names amid internal division over whether poker machines should be phased out of the venues altogether.

The RSL president, Greg Melick, said the veterans’ charity was concerned its name was being used by “organisations that don’t share our values” and that licensed clubs should have to ask for permission before using it.