The Veterans Affairs Department has reached out to more than 200,000 ex-servicemen and women offering support in the wake of the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan.
Text messages have been sent to veterans amid concerns news of the takeover could have an impact on their mental health.
"The feedback we have received is it is not just the Afghanistan vets who may be feeling distressed at this time," Minister for Veterans Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said.
"For example, it was Vietnam Veterans Day a few days ago and the feedback from the Vietnam vets was: 'Well, this just reminds us of Vietnam and Saigon and we can't forget them'.
The text message read:
"You would be aware of the situation in Afghanistan. Many may be experiencing strong feelings about this situation. Please remember that Australia is proud of you and thanks you for your service. All Australians acknowledge those who lost someone through this service. Check in with people you trust. There is always someone to talk to. Serving and ex-serving personnel and their families can call Open Arms — Veteran & Families Counselling on 1800 011 046, or anonymous support is available from Safe Zone on 1800 142 072."
'It hasn't been in vain'
Mr Gee said it was important that Australia did not make the same mistakes it did following the Vietnam War.
"You look at the way our Vietnam vets were treated when they came home, it was shocking, it was appalling," he said.
"For too long with our involvement in conflicts when our troops come home there hasn't been a willingness to talk.
"If you know a veteran, there is no better time to pick up the phone and say gidday," Mr Gee said.
The minister said Australia's personnel could be proud of their service.
'Some bad memories'
Fred Campbell served in Afghanistan and both Gulf Wars and said the images from Afghanistan had been triggering for many veterans.
"There are some people who it's bringing up some bad memories for, some things that have been deep down and some of that PTSD is coming out," Mr Campbell said.
"We have people in isolation because of different lockdowns and that is an extra concern on top of bringing up bad memories for our veterans' community."
The veteran from Nowra on the New South Wales South Coast said he was proud of what Australia achieved during its 20-year campaign in Afghanistan.
"Australia is extremely proud of everyone who served up there and think for 20 years there were women and children who lived a better life as a result of our people."
