National Service in Australia: a history from 1951 to 1972

National Service was part of Australia's defence preparedness for three decades.

Between 1951 and 1972, a total of 287,000 young Australian men were called up in two separate schemes for compulsory training in the Navy, Army and Air Force. Of them, 212 died on active service in Borneo and Vietnam.

Join Alex Garlin OAM as he recounts stories of Nashos and their vital service.

Learn about the National Service Nominal Roll | Anzac Square & Memorial Galleries and how you can search or add service details for participants in the National Service Scheme from 1951–1972.

After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries, embarking on an interactive journey from the First World War to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands.
Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance.

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