The Returned & Services League could build a new headquarters on the site of its city home that could also include a hotel, offices and retail outlets under a deal that would have the State Government give it the land to secure its financial future.

Veterans Minister Joe Francis said the Government had given in-principle approval to transfer the land, worth up to $10 million, back to the RSL, which had owned it before 1976.

It was proposed the 1300sqm St Georges Terrace site be transferred under conditional freehold, which would mean it would go back to the State if conditions around the RSL business plan were not met.

“Prior to a formal handover, the RSL will need to present to Government a detailed business plan and undertake appropriate planning and consultation with relevant stakeholders,” Mr Francis said.

He said the RSL had proposed a redevelopment including new headquarters, a multi-storey hotel, and cafe, retail, office and function spaces that could be leased out.

He was confident the RSL could meet the conditions and secure a sustainable financial future.

Premier Colin Barnett said West Australians should feel proud of how they had commemorated the Anzac centenary, including opening the National Anzac Centre, re-enactment of the departure of the first Anzac convoy from Albany and The Giants bringing the story to thousands of WA children.

The Government’s final decision in the centenary year was to give back the Anzac House site.

RSL State president Graham Edwards said the organisation was very appreciative of the Government’s gesture, which was a vote of confidence in the organisation’s future.

Anzac House had high running costs and needed much refurbishing, Mr Edwards said.

“The options were to walk away from the site or have the opportunity to demolish and redevelop and build something that will sustain us into the future,” he said.

“Ultimately, the RSL will need to do a strong business and feasibility plan.”

He hoped other ex-service groups would be able to help create a “one-stop shop” for veterans.

The first Anzac House opened on the site in 1934. It was demolished in 1976 and the land was acquired by the government in return for building the existing Anzac House, which opened in 1981. The RSL has paid a peppercorn rent since then.

Pic: Joes Francis (left) and Graham Edwards. Both bikers.
(The West Australian, 11 November)