Historical information

The primary insignia worn by members of the Australian Women's Army Service (AWAS) during World War II was the 3rd Pattern "Rising Sun" Badge. Like their male counterparts in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), AWAS personnel proudly wore this General Service badge on their uniform hats and collars. To distinguish their branch of service, personnel wore brass curved shoulder titles that read "A.W.A.S." on their epaulettes. These two items have been soldered together to form one piece.
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Significance

The Australian Women's Army Service (AWAS) was established on 13 August 1941 to release male soldiers from home defence duties for service overseas during World War II. More than 24,000 women served in the AWAS between 1941 and 1947.While initially restricted to traditional roles, the scope of AWAS responsibilities expanded as the war progressed.
In 1945, a small detachment of approximately 350 AWAS personnel was sent to serve in Lae, New Guinea

Physical description

Metal "Rising Sun" hat badge soldered to AWAS shoulder badge