New South Wales residents are rejoicing after an ‘annoying’ law that stopped Aussies from visiting their local RSL clubs was scrapped.
The NSW government has introduced a bill that will mean Australians will no longer have to register as members of clubs they live within 5km of.
The rule was a ‘head scratching’ and time wasting hurdle for many who just wanted to visit their local RSL for a get together over a relaxing pub meal or a cold beer.
The changes are part of NSW Premier Chris Minns’ “vibrant reforms” which will see an end to administrative restrictions stifling the state’s nightlife and dining scene.
Many said the ‘outdated’ rule, which gave residents outside the radius free entry, discouraged locals from avoiding membership fees to visit clubs altogether.
Speaking to FEMAIL, Luke Simmons, CEO of Norths Collective in Sydney, said clubs across the state welcome the proposed changes which will provide more flexibility.
But the CEO insists membership is a cornerstone of the sector bringing value back to local communities and said clubs can still decide to enforce the rule themselves once the reform is implemented.
“Norths… will remain membership-focused and there will be a greater price difference between members and non-members,” Mr Simmons said.
Upcoming changes to NSW legislation mean state residents will no longer have to join clubs where they live within 5km.
The proposed changes were welcomed by many Australians who said it was ‘about time’ the ‘stupid’ rule was scrapped
Rebecca Riant, CEO of ClubsNSW, commented in the NSW Government press release on the ‘exciting’ reform and how it would benefit various clubs across the state.
“We have been calling for this change for a long time, so this is a fantastic outcome for our sector,” she said.
‘For many clubs, especially golf and sailing clubs that have a social membership cap, this will make a huge difference.’
And Aussies wholeheartedly agreed, with many taking to Reddit to share their thoughts on the Prime Minister’s proposed changes, congratulating him for ‘getting this far in the end’.
“About damn time, it’s a stupid rule,” said one.
“I hate paying for a club I visit once a year,” another added.
“I have three club memberships just to visit my various locals, this is great,” said a third.
But many argued that the changes do not go far enough and that it is ‘b*******’ that clubs still require you to sign up, which is the most ‘annoying’ barrier to entry.
Global superstar Pink was caught out by the ‘draconian’ rule when she was denied entry to a Sydney club in early 2024 after arriving without any form of ID.
Some stressed that joining RSLs will still be worthwhile after the changes as it brings many additional benefits.
Gosford RSL in NSW offers members discounts on food and drink, their own special happy hours and meal specials, as well as free WiFi and a free bus.
One Australian was less happy when he heard of the coming reforms.
“Oh man, after I just joined it too,” he said.