A broad range of vulnerabilities, risk factors and challenges for change were examined in order to better understand why ethnic Vietnamese have the highest profile in Australia in relation to illicit drug use. A literature review of vulnerability and risk factors experienced by ethnic Vietnamese people in Australia was conducted. Emerging themes and concepts were tested against the 1996 Australian Census (Victoria), databases specific to illicit drug use, and the outcomes of key informant interviews and community consultations. Vietnam-born Australians are the third largest ethnic community in Australia. Due to high unemployment, poor English proficiency, experiences of racism, social and economic difficulties, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation, the ethnic Vietnamese community has become vulnerable to involvement with illicit drug use and distribution. Addressing drug problems among the ethnic Vietnamese community in Australia is hampered by a lack of structured, appropriate education and employment programs, biased media reporting and poor utilisation of drug treatment services. Socio-economic disadvantage and level of exclusion from the legitimate economy heighten involvement in illicit drug use and its associated harms.