About National Service in Australia
Since Federation, Australia has had four conscription schemes.
The first, from 1911 until 1929, focused on the training of underage boys as cadets to the Civilian Military Forces. During World War Two a newer scheme called for the training of young men to be added to this militia force.
In the 1950’s scheme saw 18-year-olds trained for service in Australia and in overseas postings.
The National Service Scheme from 1964 to 1972 was the first time that servicemen were called up directly into active service overseas.
Below are some historical references to National Service in Australia from this period.
National Archives Prime Minister Robert Menzies
National Archives – Prime Minister Robert Menzies From the National Archives of Australia. Defence Despite Menzies’ concern about the Communist threat abroad, military spending was
What discussions about National Service were held in Parliament?
Menzies Speech to House of Representatives 10th November 1964
10th November 1964 At present the regular forces number just over 52,000 including 22,750 in the Regular Army, 16,600 in the Air Force and 12,900
Army Pay Allowances October 1965
Wednesday, 27 October 1965 Mr HAROLD HOLT (Higgins Treasurer) – by leave – Mr. Speaker, The Government has completed its review of the allowances to
Armed Forced Death Illness Injury December 1965
Friday, 10 December 1965 Dr J F Cairns (YARRA, VICTORIA) rns asked the Acting Minister for Defence, upon notice – What casualties of Australian forces
Reynolds Speech March 1966
Thursday, 17 March 1966 Mr REYNOLDS – I make no bones about it. I strongly support the Labour Party’s objection to the conscription of youths to
Army Pay Rates March 1966
Thursday, 31 March 1966 Mr HAROLD HOLT – I should first point out that the conditions of pay and of service in the Australian
Army Pay Rates May 1966
Tuesday, 10 May 1966 Mr Bowen (PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES) n asked the Minister for the Army, upon notice – What is the current rate
Defence Forces Retirement Benefits Fund August 1967
Wednesday, 16 August 1967 The Government has decided, however, as I announced in the Budget Speech, to seek an amendment of the legislation governing defence
When did Australia's involvement in National Service and the Vietnam conflict start and finish?
End of conflict amendments to the Defence Act
End of conflict amendments to the Defence Act Defence Act 1903 to 1973 as amended up to Act 216 dated 1973 “Active Forces“-lncludes all parts
Vietnam – Start and Finish Dates by Proclamation
Vietnam — Start and Finish Dates by Proclamation Parliamentary involvement in declaring war and deploying forces overseas Deirdre McKeown, Politics and Public Administration Section Roy
