Australian forces served in the Mediterranean from 1939 to protect vital sea trade routes and the Suez Canal. Personnel from all 3 services were involved. Engaging in key battles like Tobruk and El Alamein, personnel endured extreme desert conditions, water scarcity and disease. Despite British pressure, General Blamey’s charter ensured Australian units remained under national control. Most Army divisions had returned to Australia by 1943, while RAAF units stayed until 1945.
Australian involvement in the Mediterranean and North Africa began in September 1939 when the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) departed Australia. They arrived in the Mediterranean just before Christmas.
By early 1940, the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) arrived. AIF troops quickly established training camps in Palestine.
In June 1940, Italy joined Germany as an Axis power, leading to immediate naval clashes at Calabria and Cape Spada.
The following year, 1941, was marked by intense activity.
Australians won an early victory at Bardia in January. But by March, German forces under General Rommel joined the conflict. Between April and December, Australians served in:
- Greece and Crete
- the Siege of Tobruk in Libya
- the campaign against Vichy French forces in Syria and Lebanon.
Following Japan’s entry into the war in December 1941, the Australian Government began building its forces in Australia. This included recalling army units to defend the home front. The 7th and 6th divisions were the first to leave the Middle East.
In 1942, the 9th Division played a critical role in the Battles of El Alamein from July to November. This finally secured the Suez Canal for the Allies.
US forces arrived in North Africa in late 1942 to support the final push against the Axis.
By January 1943, the 9th Division sailed for home.
Axis forces surrendered in North Africa in May 1943, followed by the Allied invasion of Sicily in July.
The last RAN ships left the Mediterranean in November 1943.
While land and sea forces had mostly returned to the Pacific, RAAF units continued to serve in the Mediterranean and Italy until fighting ended in 1945.
Glossary
- Allies
- theatre of war
