Contributions of conscription
Conscription is compulsory enlistment in the armed forces. This means that if you are conscripted you have no choice but to join the armed forces. In 1916, Australia had compulsory military service but conscripted men could only serve within Australian territory. Billy Hughes wanted to extend conscription so that men could be sent to reinforce the front line in Europe.
Conscription contributed both negatively and positively to the broader war effort; it gave many a chance to earn money and gave them a sense of nationalism. But conscription and the whole war effort in general was seen as a huge loss with almost no gain. Conscription was never enacted in Australia and the issue split the country, causing arguments and protests to erupt between the two sides. Conscription was evidence of Australia’s loyalty and dedication to England, which was what brought the most support from the people.
Conscription contributed both negatively and positively to the broader war effort; it gave many a chance to earn money and gave them a sense of nationalism. But conscription and the whole war effort in general was seen as a huge loss with almost no gain. Conscription was never enacted in Australia and the issue split the country, causing arguments and protests to erupt between the two sides. Conscription was evidence of Australia’s loyalty and dedication to England, which was what brought the most support from the people.