Historical information

From 1909-1929, all boys 12-14 yrs and men 18-20 were required to enrol for army training only for domestic service. In 1939 all unmarried men aged 21 yrs were required to register for 3 months training for service in Australia and its territories. This was expanded in 1942 when all men 18-35 yrs and single men 35-45 yrs were required to register for the CMF (Citizens Military Force) Many of these then volunteered for the regular army during WW2. However the biggest National Service intake occurred between 1951 and 1972 as a reaction to the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Initially this required all 18 yr olds to complete 176 days of military service. Then in 1964 the lottery system was invoked.

Physical description

Bendigo Advertiser ''The way we were'' from 2002. Walking proud: these men were part of the July 9, 1957 national service intake chosen by ballot. The men are pictured at Puckapunyal army camp. Photo supplied by Ernie Hartland.