NSW residents are rejoicing after an “annoying” law that discouraged Australians from visiting their local RSL clubs was removed.
The New South Wales government has proposed a bill that means Australians will no longer have to register as members of clubs where they live within 5 kilometres.
The rule was a ‘head scratcher’ and a waste of time for many who just wanted to visit their local RSL to meet up and have a relaxing pub meal or a cold beer.
The changes are part of New South Wales Premier Chris Minns’ “vitality reforms” which are removing bureaucratic restrictions stifling the state’s nightlife and dining scene.
Many said the “antiquated” rule, which allowed free entry to those who lived outside the radius, discouraged locals from avoiding visiting clubs’ membership fees altogether.
Luke Simmons, chief executive of Norths Collective in Sydney, spoke to FEMAIL and said clubs across the state welcome the proposed changes which will offer greater flexibility.
But the chief executive insists membership is a cornerstone of the industry returning value to local communities and said clubs can still decide to enforce the rule themselves once the reform is passed.
“The Norths… will continue to be membership-oriented and there will be a greater price differential between members and non-members,” Mr. Simmons said.
Upcoming changes to New South Wales legislation mean residents of the state will no longer have to become members of clubs if they live within a 5km radius.
The proposed changes were welcomed by many Australians who said it was “about time” the “stupid” rule was repealed.
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant commented in the NSW Government press release about the “exciting” reform and how it would benefit different clubs across the state.
“We have long advocated for this change, so this is a fantastic outcome for our industry,” he said.
“For many clubs, especially golf and sailing clubs, which have social membership limits, this will make a big difference.”
And Australians wholeheartedly agreed, with many taking to Reddit to weigh in on the Prime Minister’s proposed changes and congratulate him for “getting there in the end.”
“It’s about time, that’s a stupid rule,” said one.
“I hate paying for a club I visit once a year,” added another.
“I have three club memberships just to visit my different venues, this is great,” chimed in a third.
But many argued that the changes do not go far enough and that it is “bullshit” that clubs still require you to register, which is the most “annoying” barrier to entry.
Global superstar Pink was caught out by the ‘draconian’ rule when she was refused entry to a Sydney club in early 2024 for arriving without any form of identification.
Some insisted that membership in RSLs will still be worthwhile after the changes, as they come with many additional benefits.
Gosford RSL in New South Wales offers its members discounts on food and drink, its own happy hours and meal specials, as well as free Wi-Fi and a complimentary coach.
One Australian was less happy to hear about the upcoming reform.
“Oh man, after I joined too,” he said.
