The Vietnam War began as a civil war between North and South Vietnam. The communist North Vietnamese, or Vietcong wanted to take over the democratic South. Democratic countries like Australia and the US were concerned that if South Vietnam was defeated, other countries would “fall” to communism. This fear became known as the domino theory. America immediately offered military support to South Vietnam and asked Australia to do the same.
In 1962, Australia sent administrative support to South Vietnam. As the war continued and the Vietcong advanced, the Australian government announced it would send armed forces. The government reintroduced conscription, with the first ballot held on 10 March 1965. Australian troops were established in Vietnam
In 1962, Australia sent administrative support to South Vietnam. As the war continued and the Vietcong advanced, the Australian government announced it would send armed forces. The government reintroduced conscription, with the first ballot held on 10 March 1965. Australian troops were established in Vietnam