On 3 September 1939 Prime Minister Robert Gordon Menzies announced the beginning of Australia’s involvement in the Second World War on every national and commercial radio station in Australia.
Almost a million Australians, both men and women, served in the Second World War.
| No. | Item Name | Description | Vic Collections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clothing Ration Book / Coupons | To help the war effort most things were rationed. The appropriate number of tickets were required to purchase goods. | more information |
| 2 | A.M.F. Operation Ration Tin | This ration pack was developed by Sir Stanton Hicks. It contained three meals, each waterproofed (a vital consideration for the tropics), which offered a balanced selection of meat, vegetables, fruit and vitamin supplements. | more information |
| 3 | Record of Service Book | This book serves as proof of the fact that the bearer has performed the services required to fit him for the defence of his country. | more information |
| 4 | Eyeshields, Anti-Gas, MK.II. | Safety Eyeshields which were issued to protect the eyes from liquid irritant sprayed from enemy aircraft during WWII. | more information |
| 5 | Australian Army Soldiers Sewing Kit | This kit is just one of many different brands of sewing kit – issued to Australian troops during the Second World War. | more information |
| 6 | WWII Identity Card | This type of card was issued to British subjects who were civilians. During World War II everyone in Australia was issued with a personal identity card and was required to report changes of address to the government. | more information |
| 7 | Puttees | A puttee is a cloth band that was wound round a soldier’s leg from their ankle to their knee. They were designed to provide support when walking and protect against harsh weather conditions. The puttee also prevented debris and water from entering the boots or pants. | more information |
| 8 | New Testament Bible WWII | This bible was issued to men and women on active duty during WWII. | more information |
| 9 | WWI Badge for Women Blue Enamel Badge | Female Relative Badges were issued to the nearest female relative (usually wives or mothers) of those who engaged in active service overseas during the First and Second World Wars. | more information |
| 10 | WWII Badge for Women Silver Badge | This Military Medal was given to the wives and mothers of Australian Soldiers serving during World War 2 1939-1945 | more information |