The Royal Tasmania Regiment was formed in 1960 as part of the reforms that saw the old Citizens Military Force reorganised along pentropic lines into what is now known as the Army Reserve.

During this conflict, two men of the 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen had the distinction of earning the first Victoria Crosses (VC) to be awarded to Australian infantrymen.

During World War I the 12th and 40th Battalions were raised as part of the Australian Imperial Force and these units went on to serve with considerable distinction overseas.

The battalion serves in the light infantry role as part of 2 Division, Australia's main home defence formation.

The unit is proud of its history within the 9th Brigade and 2nd Division for performing at a consistently high standard.

However, the unit's colour patch is that of the 12th Battalion, 1st Australian Imperial Force, which is white over sky blue.

Motto: "Pro Aris Et Focis" – "For God and Our Country" or literally "For Altars and Hearths".

Regimental Marches: The Royal Tasmania Regiment – "The Southlanders" 12th Battalion – "Captain Oldfield" 40th Battalion – "Invercargill" Unit Mascot: The unit mascot is a Sarcophilus harrisii, commonly known as the Tasmanian devil named TX 666 PTE Bluey Devil IV.

The City of Launceston granted the 12th Independent Rifle Company, one of the units which formed 12th/40th Battalion, the Freedom of Entry on 22 November 1986.

Although now an Australian Army Reserve battalion, the 12th/40th holds 47 official Battle and Theatre honours.