Fifteen years of care, commemoration and camaraderie

This is done in direct and indirect ways – from providing wellbeing services or helping veterans through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs claims process, to delivering and supporting commemorative events. 

And there’s four outstanding people who have been doing this at RSL Queensland for 15 remarkable years. Anita Bentley, Kath Barry, Lynette Phillips, and Leanne Clements all started their careers at RSL Queensland in 2009.  

Supporting veterans through it all 

Anita, Kath and Lynette work in RSL Queensland’s Veteran Services department – the frontline of work that supports veterans and their families.  

"It's what gets you out of bed in the morning. You know you're genuinely making a difference. You're with veterans and their families through the good times, the bad times, and the sad times,” says Anita, Senior Manager - Compensation. 

Anita Bentley - RSL Queensland Senior Manager - Compensation

“It's not just a way to pay your bills, we're here for an absolutely genuine reason and that is to change lives." 

Digital transformation helps more veterans 

Back in 2009, RSL Queensland looked quite a bit different – it was made up of about 60 employees, who worked out of a wood-panelled office in Brisbane, and there’s wasn’t even a computer network that connected the Brisbane team to the many offices and Sub Branches across the state. 

Things have come a long way since then – RSL Queensland now employees about 400 people across Queensland, all supported by the latest digital tools, systems and devices that ensure a helping hand is never far away. 

Lynette Phillips - Central Queensland District Secretary

Central Queensland District Secretary Lynette, who is based in Mackay, says the digital transformation is probably the biggest change she’s seen over the past 15 years. 

‘We’re based in a regional area, but when a veteran walks in looking for support, we’re able to connect with the Brisbane or Rockhampton team and ensure they get the right support,” Lynette says. 

“The connection we have with each other is amazing now – the barriers to supporting people have really been broken down.” 

“I love my job and I love what I do. I love who I work for, plus the number of veterans, members and volunteers I’ve met and been able to help is just amazing. That’s why I’m still here.” 

Work put into perspective 

Leanne, who works in the Digital and Business Solutions department and manages and streamlines our business processes, is one of the technology experts who make things a whole lot easier for frontline staff like Anita, Kath and Lynette. 

“What we do from a digital perspective is really important and it assists the entire business. That importance isn’t lost on us, and it’s why I do what I do,” Leanne says. 

Leanne Clements - RSL Queensland Digital & Business Solutions

Values that staff can believe in 

So, what’s kept them at RSL Queensland for 15 years?  

According to Sunshine Coast District Secretary Kath, it’s the special people she gets to work with every day. Kath’s family has a strong military background – her father was in the Navy, and her grandfather was a World War I veteran. 

“Having the opportunity to support those who have served our country is a huge honour,” Kath says.  

“It’s our obligation now to serve them, and to support them in their day-to-day lives. It makes me very proud to work for an organisation that reflects my family’s values.” 

Kath Barry - Sunshine Coast District Secretary