Vietnam War And Austalia's Involvement

South Vietnam President Visits

Sep 12, 1957

South Vietnam's President Ngo Dinh Diem visits Australia. Prime Minister Menzies reaffirms support.

First Training Members Arrive

Aug 12, 1962

The first members of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) arrive in South Vietnam.

First Australian Troop Dies

Jun 1, 1963

Advisor, Sergeant William Hacking becomes the first Australian to die in Vietnam when his weapon accidentally discharges after being caught in vegetation.

Menzies Increases the army size

Nov 10, 1964

The Prime Minister (Rt. Hon. Sir Robert Menzies) announces introduction of national service to increase the army’s strength from 22,750 to 37,500. Opposition to the war in Vietnam is not accepted as a reason for exemption.

HMAS Sydney Arrives

Jun 8, 1965

HMAS Sydney arrives at Vung Tau, South Vietnam, carrying the bulk of the Australian force.

Protest Against The Vietnam War

Oct 13, 1965

A demonstration against the war in Sydney results in 65 arrests.

Harrold Holt

Jan 13, 1966

Harold Holt succeeds Menzies as Prime Minister.

Holt Increases Vietnam Commitment

Mar 13, 1966

Holt announces the Australian commitment in South Vietnam will be Increased to a 4350-man task force, and will include conscripts.

John Gorton

Jan 13, 1968

John Grey Gorton sworn in as Prime Minister.

Harold Holt Goes Missing

Jan 13, 1968

Prime Minister Harold Holt missing, presumed drowned off Portsea in Victoria. His body is never recovered.

Marches

May 13, 1970

Anti-Vietnam War protesters stage the first moratorium marches in Australian cities (70,000 in Melbourne, and about 120,000 throughout Australia).

William Mcmahon

Mar 13, 1971

Sir William McMahon replaces Gorton as Liberal leader and Prime Minister.

Peace Treaty

Jan 13, 1972

USA and North Vietnam sign a peace agreement.

Australia Ends Commitment

Mar 13, 1972

Australia’s military commitment in South Vietnam ends, although controversy about the precise end date of the war continues.