The contribution of female veterans, who the Queensland RSL says are often not properly recognised for their role in serving Australia, is being recognised as part of the annual red poppy appeal.

This year's appeal was launched in Brisbane today by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Squadron Leader Samantha Freebairn, ahead of Remembrance Day ceremonies next month.

The Poppy Appeal is largest fundraising activity for the RSL, with the sale of poppies beginning in late October each year.

Squadron Leader Freebairn, who is one of only two C-17 Globemaster pilots in Australia, said it was important women continue to join the armed forces.

"There are some challenges unique to women serving in the Defence Force - they're often in a male-dominated environment - [there's] some complex negotiations over femininity that they have to overcome," she said.

"Particularly in my early career, I encountered some very old-fashioned views of women in the Defence Force ... but I'm glad we've come a long way and to be part of this change in the future."

Former Australian Army Sergeant Kym Whalley was diagnosed with cancer related to her service in East Timor.

She said many female veterans suffer after service, and there needed to be more support for them.

"I believe there are probably a lot of other women veteran who are probably doing it tough after service," she said.

"I encourage you to seek out the RSL and get the support you need."

Queensland RSL president Stewart Cameron said apart from women who served in the Defence Force many thousands more deserve recognition.

He said it was important to honour the courage and sacrifice of the women who had served Australia.

"It's really important we continue to support all those women who cared for or are caring for injured husbands and sons when they returned from operations and the thousands more who lost their loved ones," he said.

"Many of us find it hard to believe that women have played an integral in the Australian Defence Force since the Boer War, in World War I and World War II.

"Nearly 70,000 women served and since then many, many thousands have gone on to serve for the defence force."