Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps (WRAAC) - Mt Martha House

 

 

 

The story of the Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps (WRAAC) at Mount Martha House highlights the significant yet often overlooked contributions of women during a pivotal moment in history. The repurposing of Mount Martha House in the early 1940s as a training and accommodation facility for WRAAC members marked an important chapter in the region’s history, reflecting the broader role women played in both wartime and social progress.

The WRAAC, established in 1941, was groundbreaking in its inclusion of women in the Australian Army, offering them the opportunity to serve in non-combat roles such as clerks, drivers, telephone operators, and mechanics. By providing these women with training at Mount Martha House, the Australian Army not only acknowledged their capabilities but also empowered them to take on positions traditionally held by men, expanding their roles beyond the domestic sphere.

This shift represents a significant moment in gender history, and the WRAAC at Mount Martha House became an emblem of the progress women made toward gender equality during and after World War II. The training that took place at the site was not just about military skills; it symbolised the changing perceptions of women’s roles in society.

In addition to the collective experience of WRAAC members at Mount Martha House, individual stories of these women underscore their courage and resilience.

The WRAAC’s legacy is profound. After World War II, the corps was disbanded in 1977, but its influence persisted, with many women in the corps continuing their careers in the military, government, and other sectors. The training they received at Mount Martha House laid the foundation for future generations of women to enter the workforce in a variety of fields, challenging gender norms and shaping Australian society.

Image: Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps (WRAAC)

Credit: Mt Martha House