Conscription Debate

Question 1

Why were Australia suddenly not supportive of the war no more?

Answer 1

The news of the casualties started to filter home, The reports of the tousands of men being killed and wounded had reaches Australia.

Question 2

After the retreat of Gallipoli, what were the attitudes of Australians at home?

Answer 2

Australians developed more realistic and harsh attitudes toward War, causing enlistment numbers to drop.

Question 3

What was life like at home in Australia?

Answer 3

Industries, resources and citizens all made sacrifices.
There were shortages of food and everyday necessities were common as all supplies were sent to support the Australian armies

Question 4

Why was Billy Hughes (AUS PM) convinced Australia needed conscription?

Answer 4

Conscription was being introduced by many counties such as Britain, New Zealand, Canada and the US. It was expected Australia would follow, adding pressure for Australia to have conscription.

Question 5

What role did Billy Hughes play in the War?

Answer 5

• Billy Hughes led Australia through most of the War. While supporting the British empire, Hughes also stood up for Australian interests.
• He was the leader of the Labour Party

Question 6

What is a plebiscite? What was the Australian 1916 Plebiscite about?

Answer 6

A national vote to decide a question that does not affect the Constitution. Australians were asked to vote Yes or No on whether the Australian Government should enforce Conscription requiring all eligible men to fight overseas.

Question 7

Why did Billy Hughes declare a Plebiscite?

Answer 7

Because his own Party had a disagreement over the Plebiscite and wanted to put it to the people to decide.

Question 8

What was the result of the Australian 1916 Plebiscite?

Answer 8

Nearly all Australians voted No to the Conscription

Question 9

Why did Australian politicians support Australia’s entry into the war?

Answer 9

Australian politicians were loyal to our “mother country” and wanted to fight for Britain. They also thought they would eventually need support from Britain in the future.

Question 10

3 Reasons to Vote for Conscription

Answer 10

1. Britain was in peril and needed support
2. Many Australians were already fighting and dying so others should be forced to step forward and do their duty.
3. Other allied countries such as Great Britain, New Zealand and Canada had already introduced conscription.

Question 11

3 reasons to vote against conscription

Answer 11

1. Too many Australians had already died or been wounded.
2. There would not be enough hands to farm if too many men were conscripted.
3. No one has the right to send another to be killed.