On cessation of hostilities in 1945, the Australian Government made a commitment to contribute Australians to the Commonwealth Occupational Forces in Japan. The 34th Infantry Brigade was raised in Morotai, specifically for this purpose, and consisted of three Infantry Battalions, namely the 65th, 66th and 67th Battalions. In 1948, the 34th Infantry Brigade was designated as the Australian Regiment, with the Battalions becoming the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Battalions, The Australian Regiment. In 1949, Royal assent was given and the Regiment became The Royal Australian Regiment.
The Regiment was deployed to Korea in 1950 at the outbreak of hostilities between North and South Korea, at the request of the United Nations and served there until 1956. For most of the next two decades, the Regiment remained committed on active service operations in Malaya, Malaysia, Borneo and South Vietnam. In recent times, the Regiment has provided elements for United Nations peace keeping operations, such as Cambodia and Somalia. During service in Australia the Regiment has made a significant contribution to national disaster operations such as cyclones Althea and Tracey.
The Royal Australian Regiment has a proud history of serving Australia in both war and peace.
In 1998, The Royal Australian Regiment Association commenced building a National Memorial Walk, at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, Queensland, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the formation of The Royal Australian Regiment. Many of the Regiment dead are buried overseas in Japan, Korea and Malaysia and relatives and friends are unable to visit the graves of their loved ones. This project will provide a place of solace and focus within Australia for the commemoration of the sacrifices made by the men of the Regiment.
The National Memorial Walk consists of a path 700 metres long, flanked by more than 1000 native Australian trees. At the base of selected trees is a plaque bearing the name and details of each of the 685 members of the Regiment who died on overseas service.
A commemorative building was erected to provide a place for contemplation and remembrance. The building is for community remembrance activities on Anzac Day, anniversaries of Battle Honours, campaigns and unit birthdays.