NSW based Vietnam veterans are invited to apply to attend the 2018 Premier’s Reception held in their honour

The Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott invites Vietnam Veterans across NSW to apply to attend the 2018 Premier’s Reception held in their honour at Government House this August.

The reception, to thank veterans for their service in the Vietnam War, has been hosted by the Premier of NSW every year since 1995.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for veterans to come together, to reflect on the bonds of mateship that held them together during the war and to pay respect to those who did not return,” the Mr Elliott said. 

“It also enables the NSW Government to pay its ongoing respect for the service and sacrifice of the Australian servicemen and women who served in the war.”

The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest engagement of the 20th century. Almost 60,000 Australians fought in the war and 500 lost their lives.

Mr Elliott said he was pleased to honour Vietnam War veterans and their families, particularly during the Centenary of Anzac, which recognises the service of all those who had served in the Australian Defence Force over the last one hundred years.

“I encourage all veterans to apply to attend this year’s reception, held in August in commemoration of the Battle of Long Tan,” Mr Elliott said.

“While it is open to all, veterans who have not attended past receptions will be given precedence in the ballot draw.”

Hosted by the Premier Gladys Berejiklian and the NSW Governor David Hurley, the reception will be held on 11 August 2018 from 2:30pm – 4:00pm at Government House, Sydney.

Online applications for veterans across NSW interested in attending are now open at https://bit.ly/2KUJEFx Applications close 4 June ahead of the ballot on 8 June. Invitations will be sent to those successful in the ballot draw.