The **Townsville Sub Branch Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Inc.** (ABN 93094665213RR0001) represents a regional chapter of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia (VVAA), dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Established as part of a broader national movement, the sub-branch focuses on advocacy and welfare services for those affected by service in conflicts, particularly addressing health concerns linked to wartime exposures.

### History and Purpose  
The VVAA originated in the late 1970s as the **Vietnam Veterans Action Association**, formed in response to mounting health issues among veterans attributed to Agent Orange and other chemical exposures during the Vietnam War. These exposures were linked to conditions ranging from cancers to psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Townsville sub-branch emerged to address localized needs, operating independently of traditional veterans' organizations like the RSL, which many felt inadequately represented their postwar challenges.

### Activities and Advocacy  
The sub-branch provides claims assistance, welfare support, and camaraderie for veterans of conflicts such as Vietnam, later wars, and peacekeeping operations. Historically, it has advocated for recognition of chemical exposure effects, countering government inaction highlighted by the contentious 1983 Evatt Royal Commission findings. Its motto, reflecting a commitment to honoring both fallen and surviving veterans, underscores ongoing efforts to secure equitable treatment for service-related health conditions.

### Organizational Structure  
As a nonprofit, the sub-branch operates under the national VVAA framework, which includes state/territory offices and regional sub-branches across Australia. The Townsville group collaborates with entities like Veterans Support Centre NQ Inc. while maintaining autonomy in delivering localized services. Membership is open to eligible veterans, fostering a community-oriented approach to advocacy and mutual aid.

[1] https://www.vvaatvl.org.au [2] https://www.cictownsville.com.au/places/australia/queensland/townsville/information-support-services/vietnam-veterans-association-of-australia-townsville/ [3] https://www.vvaatvl.org.au/home/about-vvaa/ [4] https://raafatownsville.com/for-the-veterans/vietnam-vets-website-tvl/ [5] https://vvfa.org.au/page2.htm