Vietnam War veterans to lead Vic march

Vietnam War veterans and the South Vietnamese who helped them will lead the Anzac Day March in Melbourne this year.

It's the first time they will lead the march down St Kilda Road to the Shrine of Remembrance as they mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.

One of the defining chapters of Australia's military history, 108 Australian troops defeated a Viet Cong force of more than 1500 soldiers.

The Vietnam War was held against a backdrop of controversy back home, marked by anti-war protests and fierce opposition to conscription.

"As we pause to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, it's fitting that Victoria's Australian and Vietnamese veterans will lead the march for the first time," veterans minister John Eren said.

A dawn service will be held at the Shrine of Remembrance at 6am, an official wreath laying service at 8.15am and an Anzac Day march along St Kilda Road to the Shrine will begin at 9am.

Large crowds are expected in the city and hundreds of others are expected to pay their respects at cenotaphs and RSLs across the state.

The first official Anzac Day was held in 1916 to mark the first anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign.

2016 marks the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day itself.