Australia’s first conscientious objector during the Vietnam War | Our Vietnam War | ABC Australia

In 1965 William White registered as a conscientious objector, stating his opposition to both war in general and the war in Vietnam. His objection was denied.

When William White’s birthday was drawn in the first conscription ballot held in March, he was the first Australian to fight his call up notice.

After refusing to report for training he was sacked from his teaching job and then arrested and incarcerated at Holsworthy Army Base.

Over 60,000 Australians, including ground troops and air force and navy personnel, served in Vietnam; 523 died as a result of the war and almost 2,400 were wounded.

On August 18, 2023, Australia marks the 50th anniversary of the end of its involvement in the Vietnam War with a national service at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra.

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The 3-part series Our Vietnam War tells the story Australia’s involvement in the words of the men who were sent to fight; the battles, the protests, returning and the long shadow the war cast on the people whose lives were turned upside down.

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