Circular 4/21 11 February 2021

Further to Circular 2/21 on 28 January 2021, I can now provide formal advice regarding 2021 ANZAC Day Commemorations across the state, including the Sydney CBD March.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way Australians can commemorate this ANZAC Day. Together with RSL NSW President Ray James I have worked with the NSW Government to ensure that commemorations can take place this year, in accordance with current NSW Health advice and event guidelines.

Please find a link to a letter from the Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors, and Veterans, The Hon. Geoff Lee, MP and our President outlining the current guidelines for events in NSW. The letter sets out the restrictions for hosting controlled outdoor events, including Dawn Services, Marches, and all other ANZAC Day commemorations. The maximum number of attendees varies between Greater Sydney and Regional NSW:

Within Greater Sydney:

• Up to 500 people, if people are assigned to a seating area (2sqm rule)
• Up to 2,000 people, if people are assigned to a specific seat (2sqm rule)

Outside of Greater Sydney:

• Up to 3,000 people, if people are assigned to a seating area (2sqm rule)
• Up to 5,000 people, if people are assigned to a specific seat (2sqm rule)

Please visit nsw.gov.au for up-to-date information on restrictions in your local area.

Please contact your Police Area Command and your local Council to commence planning your COVID-safe events. Once your event has been confirmed and so that we can keep your community informed, please add the details to the RSL NSW website by completing this form.

The Sydney CBD March will go ahead this year. Participation is limited to 500 veterans in accordance with social distancing, health, and safety requirements.

Entry into the Sydney CBD March will be by way of a ballot process conducted via the RSL NSW website. Places will be allocated to veterans across each service branch and conflict from World War II to current operations via the ballot. WWII veterans have been notified in writing that they do not need to apply for the ballot.

As the pandemic evolves please bear in mind that the format of events may be required to change or be cancelled at any time in accordance with the direction of NSW Health.

The health and safety of veterans, current serving members of the Australian Defence Force, and our communities are the highest priority for RSL NSW and the NSW Government. However, I encourage you to embody the ANZAC spirit and embrace the opportunity to host commemorative events in your community this year.

Please visit the Commemorations page and Member’s Suite of RSL NSW website to find a range of ANZAC Day information and resources which will be updated as information becomes available.