The Regiment was formed in 1960 as a result of the amalgamation of all the Citizen Military Forces infantry battalions in Victoria. The regiment was formed in 1960 as the Victoria Regiment as part of the reorganisation of the Australian Army by the amalgamation of the six existing infantry regiments in Victoria:
The regiment, renamed as the Royal Victoria Regiment in 1960, was initially formed of two battalions. In 1965. this was increased to four battalions, plus a single independent rifle company. A further reorganisation in the 1970s saw these battalions further amalgamated into the existing regimental structure. Currently the 5th/6th Battalion recruits mainly from the areas in and around the city of Melbourne, while the 8th/7th Battalion is responsible for the wider rural areas in Victoria.
Pipes and Drums
Royal Victoria Regiment marching down Swanston Street past Flinders Street Station, as part of the 2006 ANZAC Day Parade in Melbourne
Formed in 1899 as part of the Victorian Scottish Regiment, the 5/6RVR Pipes and Drums is now the band for all battalions of the Royal Victoria Regiment. Some members of 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums are serving Army Reservists from 5th/6th Battalion, Royal Victoria Regiment, other members are derived from other Army Reserve units / parts of the Australian Defence Force, and selected guest players.
