18 August 2026
On this day, exactly 60 years ago, one of the most significant battles fought by Australians during the Vietnam War took place.
The Battle of Long Tan saw members of Delta Company, 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment confronted by North Vietnamese and Viet Cong troops in a rubber plantation in torrential rain.
Outnumbered, they fought in extremely difficult conditions under sustained and heavy fire throughout the day and into the early evening. Eighteen Australians were killed and 24 wounded.
Australia observes Vietnam Veterans’ Day, honouring the service and sacrifice of all Australians who served in the Vietnam War, on the anniversary of the battle.
Today, Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania, represented Tasmanians at a commemorative service to mark the day – and the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan – at the Hobart Cenotaph.
In her address, Her Excellency noted that 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam during the war, and many felt that their service was not properly honoured on their return.
“In my view, Vietnam Veterans’ Day exists because there was a wrong that needed righting,” Her Excellency said.
“It exists so that we can say, plainly, without hesitation or any qualification, we honour your service and we are grateful.
“So today, I want to say thank you. Thank you to those who paid the ultimate price. Thank you to all who served and to those who continue to serve. Thank you to those who have given their support.
“Lest we forget.”
