BLUF

Between 1965 and 1972, Australia conscripted 63,000 men through a birthday-ballot National Service Scheme. About 18,000 served in Vietnam, where over 200 died. Growing anti-war opposition contributed to conscription ending in 1972.

Learning Outcomes 

  • Explain the purpose and operation of Australia's National Service Scheme, including the reasons for its introduction, the birthday-ballot system, and the requirements placed on conscripts during the Vietnam War.
  • Assess the experiences and contributions of national servicemen ("Nashos"), including their training, service in Vietnam, roles in major operations, and the impact of conscription on Australian society.
  • Analyse differing public attitudes towards conscription, including support for National Service, the emergence of conscientious objection and anti-war protests, and the factors that led to the abolition of conscription in 1972. 
READ: Conscription and the birthday ballot during the Vietnam War

References