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Germany invaded Poland
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Britain, France, Australia and New Zealand declared war on Germany
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Canada declared war on Germany
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Soviet Union invaded Eastern Poland
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Warsaw surrended
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Soviet Union invaded Finland
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Australian troops sailed to the Middle East to support the British war effort
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Australian troops saw action in North Africa against the Italians
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The port of Tobruk was occupied by British and Australian troops
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Australian and British troops suffered defeat in Greece and Crete against the Germans
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John Curtin became Prime Minister of Australia
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Australia declared war on Japan
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Australian prisoners of war
In Singapore, there was a British naval base that the Australians considered vital for their security. It was supposed to be impregnable, but the Australia still sent 15000 troops of the 8th division AIF to assist in the defence of Singapore. On 15th February, the British commander of Singapore, General Pericival, surrendered, with 130000 Allied soldiers, including 15000 Australians surrendering to the Japanese. Most of these allies would become prisoners of war, and thousands would die. -
Australian troops began operations on the Kokoda Track in New Guinea
One of the most important places Australia fought during WWII was in New Guinea. After the fall of Singapore, the Japanese decided to take Port Moresby, which means they could easily strike Australia and threaten Australia's vital link with the US naval force. In what became known as the Battle of the Coral Sea, the Japanese were stopped from taking Port Moresby by a US naval force and two Australian cruisers, Australia and Hobart.
