Long Khánh
The battalion's first major encounter with the Australians and New Zealanders was during Operation Lavarack launched by 1 ATF in May 1969, and concluding 30 June 1969. During Operation Lavarack the battalion along with other People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) and VC guerrilla elements participated in the battle of Binh Ba but were expelled by 1 ATF forces. The village of Binh Ba was completely destroyed during the battle. As a result of the failure at Binh Ba all PAVN forces including D440 Battalion were temporarily forced out of Phuoc Tuy, retreating to Long Khánh Province.