3rd Battalion (Australia)

The 3rd Battalion (3RAR) is an infantry battalion of the Australian Army. It forms part of the 3rd Brigade, which is a unit of the 1st Division.

Originally raised in 1914 as part of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War I, the battalion served at Gallipoli and on the Western Front before being disbanded in 1919. It was re-raised in 1921 as a part-time unit of the Citizens Force, later known as the Militia, before being disbanded again in 1929.

The battalion was re-formed for the second time in 1942 during World War II, serving in New Guinea and Bougainville before being disbanded in 1946.

3RAR was raised for the third time in 1948 as part of Australia's commitment to the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan following World War II. It saw active service during the Korean War, participating in significant battles such as Kapyong and Maryang San.

During the Malayan Emergency, the battalion deployed to Malaya between 1959 and 1960. It later served in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War between 1967 and 1968, earning battle honours for its contributions.

In more recent times, elements of 3RAR have been deployed on operations to East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations as part of Australia's ongoing commitment to peacekeeping and security operations.

3RAR has a long and distinguished history of service to Australia and is currently based in Townsville, Queensland. The battalion maintains a high level of readiness and continues to play a vital role in the Australian Army's order of battle. It is known for its professionalism and its ability to adapt to the changing demands of modern warfare.