“The process was fundamentally flawed, marked by a lack of impartiality, fairness, and adherence to due process.”
Moon said he had only ever accessed RSL members’ information over the past 25 years when necessary to fulfil his duties as a volunteer, and that volunteers did not have access to the full membership system.
“I believe the organisation would be better served by focusing its energy on supporting veterans, rather than attempting to undermine those, like myself, who advocate for transparency and greater governance, particularly in regard to the detrimental impact of predatory gambling within RSL clubs,” he said.
Protest signs outside the tribunal held for Lucas Moon at Anzac House in Melbourne.Credit: Facebook
“I will continue my campaign for democratic reform and improved governance within RSL Victoria, with a focus on divesting from predatory gambling operations.
“My team, including legal representatives, is already preparing for an appeal, a process we have become well-acquainted with over the years. I remain optimistic about a favourable outcome.”
Hawthorn RSL declined to comment. In a statement sent to members, seen by The Age, they said they would not comment on a current tribunal process to protect the integrity of proceedings.
In another mailout from February, they told members they had been made aware of a data breach involving members’ email addresses and names.
Moon has previously gone public with criticism of RSL Victoria, including over the use of pokies in clubs across the state.
Moon was viewed as a rising star within the Liberal Party’s moderate grouping after the 2022 campaign in a seat that was largely a contest between Labor and the Greens.
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During the tribunal hearings, supporters of Moon demonstrated outside ANZAC House in Melbourne’s CBD.
They held signs asking RSL Victoria to “stop running kangaroo courts” and wrote other messages in chalk on the footpath of Collins Street.
A spokesperson for RSL Victoria said they were not privy to information contained in tribunal hearings.
“Specifics of the Tribunal’s decision and any disciplinary actions taken are confidential, and RSL Victoria will not be providing further comment on this matter,” they said.
“While we do not comment on the specifics of individual situations, as an organisation, we take seriously our commitment to appropriate and effective stewardship of member data.
“In the event of a data breach, anyone whose data may have been compromised would be promptly notified and all appropriate authorities informed.”
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