The Trustees utilise the Fund’s general-purpose assets, provide benefits for eligible persons through the provision of general purpose interest-free loans of up to $7,000, special interest-free loans of up to $5,000, Christmas loans of up to $1,500 and, in some situations, cash grants for members experiencing unexpected financial hardships or bereavement. A principles-based system is applied in deciding if a member is permitted to borrow money from the Fund for general purpose loans and special loans. The Fund is economically viable for loans and grants; however, the Fund relies on periodic contributions from the RAN Central Canteens Fund (RANCCF) to continue to maintain the level of grants and interest-free loans.

From January 2019, the Trustees approved a general purpose interest free loan of $7,000 to those members who have served in RAN for 7 years or more under a new retention initiative. Members who have served for less than 7 years will continue to be eligible for $6,000 interest free general purpose loans with the exception of trainees.

In addition, the Trustees utilise the assets donated to the Keeping Watch program to provide grants for the comfort, recreation or welfare of a person who is in financial need and currently appointed or enlisted as a Permanent or Reserve member of the RAN. The Trustees continue to work to ensure the long-term viability of the Keeping Watch program by seeking to grow the asset base, while ensuring the assets are appropriately used.