Ensuring their legacy carries on this Vietnam Veterans’ Day

Today on Vietnam Veterans’ Day we pay tribute to the more than 60,000 Australian veterans who served in our uniform in Vietnam.

We remember the 3,000 Australians wounded in the line of duty and the 523 who lost their lives. 

Australia’s Vietnam veterans did our nation proud, but for too long they were not recognised as they should have been.

Last year we marked 50 years since the end of Australia’s involvement in Vietnam, and with that came appropriate national acknowledgement of the service and sacrifice of each and every one of our Vietnam veterans, and their families.

18 August has long held special significance for Australia’s Vietnam veterans, the anniversary of the bloody battle that was Long Tan. 

Today we continue to honour Vietnam veterans by supporting their descendants, with the opening of the 2025 Long Tan Bursary. 

Eligible children and grandchildren of Vietnam veterans can now apply for up to $12,000 to assist with the cost of their tertiary education.

To apply for the Long Tan Bursary, visit the Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT) website.

Applications close on 31 October 2024.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608