Wartime Perceptions and Attitudes

When war was declared many young Australians rushed to volunteer for service overseas in the RAN, AIF or RAAF.

The general civilian population and those engaged in primary and secondary industries gradually became aware that their lifestyles were also undergoing significant changes.

The introduction of wartime rationing produced a very significant change in civilian lifestyles. Civilians were issued with coupons which were required for the purchase of household items and supplies such as meat, butter, tea, clothing, etc. Petrol was rationed to the extent that many owners left their cars permanently in their garage 'up on blocks' for the duration of the war. Some owners fitted 'gas producers' attached to the rear of their vehicle, which yielded a petrol substitute from a device which required the operation of a charcoal-fuelled fire. New cars were not available for purchase. Travel for other than 'essential purposes' was discouraged.

A black market of rationed items soon developed but the majority of Australians preferred not to patronise this source of illegal supplies.

The civilian population was urged to help the war effort by conserving supplies required for military purposes.

Certain categories of employment were classed as 'essential services' and those so employed were informed that they would not be allowed to volunteer to join the armed services. Meteorology was classed as an essential service, although we were given the opportunity of enlisting in the RAAF, but only as part of the RAAF Meteorological Service.

Bureau of Meteorology