Historical information

Petrol rationing was gazetted in May 1941. Australia's lack of fuel storage options and the diversion of tankers bringing fuel here forced the government to begin rationing. Initially it was proposed that consumption should be reduced by 50% but this was modified to 1/3 reduction. People had to apply for a petrol licence and this was then used to obtain ration coupons. Initially coupons were issued on a 6 monthly basis but this was reduced to 2 monthly and allowed people roughly 2000 gallons per year. Coupons allowed for 1, 2, 5, 10, 44 and 100 gallon amounts depending on need. eg. private, commercial, farm use. Rationing was strictly enforced until 1942 but remained in effect until 1950.

Physical description

WWII Fuel Ration 2 Gallon Tickets: 9 Tickets of cream card with brown and blue print rectangular in shape with perforated edges. The back ground is a wall paper of small oval shapes with "Motor Spirit" printed in brown ink. Over top is "Commonwealth Liquid Fuel Control Board". In the centre, "Motor Spirit two 2 Gals not transferable Ration Ticket. Department of supply & Development. Issued Under National Security Act. 1939-40". Over top again in blue ink is covered in small lines and the words "Consumer must endorse this ticket on the back with signature and Licence number". On the back hand written in black ink is "G. Alice Jones 2(e)/3869".

Inscriptions & markings

McCracken Australia Stamp Printed