Honouring Our Nashos on the National Servicemen’s Day

Every year on National Servicemen’s Day, Australia pauses to honour the thousands of National Servicemen, affectionately known as Nashos, who dedicated themselves to protecting the nation. Their service, whether at home or overseas, played a crucial role in bolstering Australia's defence and ensuring national security.

The Legacy of National Service

Between 1951 and 1972, more than 280,000 Australians participated in two National Service Schemes. The first scheme, in the 1950s, saw around 33,000 men called up for annual training at the age of 18. The second scheme, from 1964 to 1972, required all eligible men to register for service, with more than 63,000 Nashos selected through a birthday ballot system.

While many Nashos remained in Australia, thousands were deployed overseas to Borneo, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, and Korea, facing real and often dangerous combat situations. Over 15,000 Nashos served in the Vietnam War, where 200 lost their lives and more than 1,200 were wounded.

Recognition and Support for Nashos

Despite their significant contributions, Nashos have long faced challenges in accessing the same level of recognition and support as other veterans. However, recent legislative changes aim to correct this.

The Veterans Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Harmonisation and Simplification) Bill 2024, passed on 13 February 2025, ensures that all claims lodged by National Servicemen on or after 1 July 2026 will be assessed under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004. This change could result in up to 45,000 Nashos becoming eligible for Gold Cards, the Special Rate Disability Pension, and access to the Veterans’ Review Board, benefits that were previously unavailable under past legislation.

Additionally, all Nashos—whether they were deployed or not—are entitled to a White Card from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, providing essential mental health support.

A Debt of Gratitude

Australia owes its Nashos a deep debt of gratitude. These servicemen put their lives on hold, and in many cases, on the line, to serve their country. Their commitment and sacrifice deserve to be remembered and honoured not just on National Servicemen’s Day but every day.

To pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of National Servicemen, Military Shop offers a dedicated Nashos Collection, featuring high-quality memorabilia and collectibles that commemorate their legacy. As proud supporters of the ADF for over 30 years, we provide premium military-grade products designed to honour those who served.