Centenary of Legacy

This stamp issue commemorates the centenary of Legacy in Australia. This national charitable organisation was established in 1923 in Melbourne to provide services to the families of Australian Defence Force veterans killed or wounded in World War I. In 1923, returned serviceman Major General Sir John Gellibrand formed the Remembrance Club in Hobart to aid those who suffered because of war. Another returning soldier, Lieutenant General Sir Stanley Savige, was inspired to establish a similar club in Melbourne, which was named Legacy.

Legacy is still caring for tens of thousands of partners and families who have lost their loved ones or have been adversely impacted by conflicts across the globe, including the Korean War, Malayan Emergency, Vietnam War, campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan and in peacekeeping operations. Today, there are 44 Legacy Clubs throughout Australia and one in London, providing emotional, social and financial support. Legacy currently supports 43,000 individuals and families across Australia, supported by over 3,600 volunteer members or Legatees. Funds to support Legacy’s work are raised by a variety of methods, the most notable being the sale of special badges and other goods during Legacy Week, which is usually during the first week of September.