Australia’s commitment to Korea led to the re-formation of women’s military services and a government attempt to ban the Communist Party. Opposition to the war remained confined to small communist, trade union and peace groups.
Without any direct threat to the Australian continent, daily life in Australia hardly changed. However, the United Nations (UN) demand for winter uniforms was lucrative for the wool industry and the national economy. Censorship and the stalemate of trench warfare quickly dampened public interest. However, families of those serving endured anxiety, isolation and limited news.
Returning personnel were widely regarded as veterans of a ‘forgotten war’. Many felt their service was overlooked and their achievements and sacrifices undervalued. These feelings stemmed in part from public apathy and inconsistent homecoming parades. Veterans also did not receive a distinct Australian service medal until 1997. Long-term, many veterans suffered severe medical conditions, including psychological trauma. They also experienced significantly higher mortality rates compared to their non-serving peers.
Australian service in the Korean War occupies a shadowy place in Australian history. On one side, it's overshadowed by the massive scale of World War II. On the other, it competes for public memory with the long, controversial and televised Vietnam War.