Historical information

Food, clothing and other products were in short supply in Australia during World War II. The first controls over the production and distribution of products were introduced in 1940, partly due to disruption of shipping. In 1942, after Japan entered the War, comprehensive rationing was introduced to manage shortages and control civilian consumption. The first product to be rationed was clothing on 12 June 1942. Each adult was allowed 112 clothing coupons per year. Tea rationing was introduced the following month, followed by sugar, butter and then meat. After the War, rationing was gradually phased out. Clothing rationing was abolished on 24 June1948. The last rationed product was tea, which ended in July 1950.

Physical description

A soft green/brown rectangular leather wallet with metal clasp. Wallet contains W.W.11 ration books and identity cards. Ration cards are for clothing, meat, tea and butter, motor spirits

Inscriptions & markings

Identity cards - Annie Penuel Richardson Bete Bolong; John Gilbert Richardson Bete Bolong
Meat Ration card - J.G. Richardson, Scotch College; Annie P. Richardson ; Frank E. Richardson Bete Bolong