The Australian Government will provide grants totalling $309,870 to help Queensland communities commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Bruce Billson, announced today. Speaking at the 2006 Annual State Congress of the Queensland RSL in Roma, Mr Billson said the funding would support events organised by State and regional ex-service organisations across Queensland.

"Some 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War, and 520 lost their lives. It is fitting that during this 40th anniversary year, we provide special support for events and initiatives to recognise the service and sacrifice of all who served in Vietnam," he said. "This funding will support a wide range of commemorative events, including Long Tan Concert at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera, home of 6RAR; military displays, marches, and a memorial service at Lawnton Showgrounds in Strathpine; as well as parades, reunions commemorative lunches and dinners in several other parts of Queensland."

The Minister told the Queensland RSL Congress that the Australian Government had demonstrated its commitment to enhancing recognition of the contribution of Vietnam veterans by providing additional funding in the 2006-07 Federal Budget to commemorate their service and sacrifice. "The Australian Government committed $4.5 million in the 2006-07 Federal Budget to commemorate Australian service in Vietnam and the 40th anniversary this year of the Battle of Long Tan - arguably the best-known Australian action during the Vietnam War."

"On 18 August 1966, Australian soldiers from D Company 6th Battalion, The Royal Australia Regiment, encountered an enemy force of more than 2500 in a rubber plantation north of the village of Long Tan. Although heavily outnumbered, the Australians held firm with a remarkable display of courage and determination until a relief force arrived." "This anniversary provides us with an opportunity to recognise and commemorate the service of all Australian servicemen and women in Vietnam," he said.

The Minister said part of the Budget commitment had been set aside for grants to fund major commemorative activities throughout Australia. "Funding is available for major State/Territory-based commemorative events and reunions, while smaller, local activities will continue to be funded through the Saluting Their Service grants program." Other initiatives funded by the Government include:

Mr Billson said the Australian Government had consulted Vietnam veteran organisations across the country in developing this range of activities and would continue to work with them to ensure their service and sacrifice was fittingly acknowledged.