The Oakleigh ‘region’ has a strong history in connection with WW1 with records showing that the Mechanics’ Institute was the venue for the first send-off for Oakleigh troops enlisted to serve in September 1914.  Troops started arriving home in mid-1918 and were welcomed home by the Oakleigh Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Welcome Home League.  As early as 1918 a committee of local people was formed to consider how they could bring about a “local centre” to help soldiers returning from the war as they wanted a memorial of soldiers and favoured a soldier’s institute – a place where those returning from war can meet. 

The Oakleigh Sub Branch No 86 was therefore formally opened in May 1919 and at the same time an appeal for a Memorial Hall was launched.  Following extensive fund raising by the local community and land granted from Warrawee Park, the Oakleigh Memorial Hall was officially opened in April 1922 with the Foundation Stone laid by Senator Brigadier General H.E. (Pompey) Elliott, thus providing a permanent home to provide veterans and their families a place to meet and enjoy the qualities of mateship, self-reliance and a community involvement.

As the years evolved, so too did the Sub Branch with poker machines installed at the Sub Branch in 2001.  By 2006 it was evident that this was not profitable and together with Anzac House, the decision was taken to remove the machines. 

Also at that time and with the Carnegie RSL Sub Branch having few remaining members, a merger of the Carnegie and Oakleigh Sub Branches was undertaken and this has become our present corporate identity known as the “Oakleigh Carnegie RSL Sub Branch Inc.”

Music has featured in our Memorial Hall over a long period of time and continues to play a part in the functions provided at our club.  Extensive renovations to our Memorial Hall were undertaken in early 2018 including the installation of top-of-the-range sound and audio visual equipment, We continue to provide great live sound and music events for all genres. 

Our Vision

To be the best traditional RSL in the state by upholding the traditions set by our forefathers in forging our national identity and providing mate ship, self-reliance and selflessness.

Our Mission

To support the wellbeing and betterment of former and serving members of the ADF and their dependents and our broader membership with the provision of welfare and commemorative services, as well as supporting our local community through the provision of a local, quality and non-gaming facility.