Circular 61/22 Introduction to sub-Branch Compliance Annual Report

In line with item 5.7 of the RSL NSW Strategic Plan, ANZAC House is developing a sub-Branch compliance framework and reporting tool to assist RSL sub-Branches to meet their governance and compliance obligations as well as ensuring that robust processes exist to protect the sub-Branch’s assets and reputation. As a result of the considerable differences in size and risk profile of RSL NSW sub-Branches, the compliance reporting framework needs to be flexible, while capturing the broad aspects of the relevant compliance and legislative requirements. The framework is scheduled for implementation in the first quarter of 2023.

The Compliance Annual Report has been designed and tested in consultation with a reference group made up of sub-Branch and District Council representatives. The report will cover sub-Branches obligations under the RSL NSW Constitution, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), in addition to legislative requirements from the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC) and the Australian Tax Office (ATO). The questions within the Compliance Annual Report are divided into four categories: Finance Processes, Governance Processes, Legal and Regulatory Requirements, and Charitable Purpose.

Information gathered from sub-Branch Compliance Annual Report submissions will inform future training and guidance materials to be delivered to sub-Branches to bridge any gaps in understanding under the above categories. It is important to note that the Compliance Annual Report is not designed to be a mechanism for reprimand – rather a way to directly support sub-Branches in their operations and delivery of our Charitable Purpose.

Please note that the Compliance Annual Report must be completed in addition to the sub-Branch Annual Return.

ANZAC House will provide further information about how to access and complete the Compliance Annual Report and sub-Branch Annual Returns in January, including the provision of an updated sub-Branch Portal User Guide. All sub-Branches will have until 31 May 2023 to complete their Compliance Annual Reports and sub-Branch Annual Returns.

If your sub-Branch does not have access to a computer and/or internet to meet its reporting obligations in 2023, please submit a request for assistance to purchase equipment by completing the Support & Assistance Fund Application Form and submit to the State Secretary for review.

If you have any compliance-related questions, please contact the Member Support Team on 1300 679 775 or by email at support@rslnsw.org.au.