Unauthorised Anzac shirt sale profiting from ‘veteran sacrifice’ angers RSL bosses
A Footscray company selling a range of Anzac Day-themed shirts has been accused of “profiting from veteran sacrifice’’.
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A Footscray company selling a range of Anzac Day-themed shirts online has been accused of “profiting from veteran sacrifice’’.
RSL Victoria said clothing company Aussie Vibes was using the Anzac name, symbols and Army Rising Sun Badge without authorisation.
The Anzac name has been protected for more than 100 years under Commonwealth laws restricting its commercial use.
RSL Victoria president Dr Rob Webster said the sales of the shirts was “very disappointing’’
“In a time when demand for veteran support exceeds what we can supply, that there are companies like this one profiting from that veteran sacrifice without giving anything back to those who need it,’’ he said.
The website is selling a range of commemorative shirts, some including poppies and words from the Ode of Remembrance which is recited at most Anzac Day services nationwide.
It also has AFL and NRL themed shirts including Collingwood and Melbourne Storm which traditionally play fixtures on April 25.
Dr Webster said that to the casual observer, the Aussie Vibes website could look like a supporter of Anzac Day.
“When you dig a little deeper there is no evidence that any support is given back to veterans, and as far as we can tell they have no authorisation to use the name and branding.”
The Herald Sun believes the RSL legal team sent Aussie Vibes an order to stand down and stop selling the clothing.
Bizarrely, the Aussie Vibes onsite blog which has facts about Anzac Day and traditions, mentions the legal protection: Australian law protects the term “Anzac,” and using it improperly can result in a fine or up to a year in jail.
RSL Victoria has also alerted the Department of Veterans Affairs so action can be taken to preserve the sanctity of the national symbols.
Aussie Vibes has been asked for comment.
Dr Webster urged people who wanted to support the RSL and veterans to go through official channels.
“When it comes to Anzac Day make sure your support goes to veterans, like RSL Victoria does with its Anzac Appeal.”
Originally published as Unauthorised Anzac shirt sale profiting from ‘veteran sacrifice’ angers RSL bosses
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