It is well known that the First World War was a traumatic experience for the Australian nation. It caused the deaths of 60,000 young men and another 156,000 men were injured, gassed or taken prisoner. But as the trauma receded, it became apparent that Australian society had changed permanently and positively. Some of the benefits realized by Australia as a result of its involvement in the First World War included a newfound maturity as a nation, respect and recognition of other nations, new opportunities for trade and industry, greater recognition of women's rights and massive economic and demographic development. increase due to post-war immigration programs. This website was created to show you some of the benefits of the First World War on Australia. Economy and Trade: When war was declared, Australia immediately banned all trade agreements with Germany, Austria-Hungary and the other Central Powers. This move cut off access to some products that had previously been imported, forcing Australia to be more independent as a country, having to develop industry to produce over 400 products ranging from pharmaceuticals to metalworking (Anzac Day Committee Qld, 2014). This opened up many opportunities for Australian businesses. Australia was also called upon to supply its European allies with vital products, including grain, wool and meat. This required an increase in production which revived the economy even after the war. By 1915 there was no grain available from Russia to transport to Britain and poor harvests in America led to Britain purchasing Australia's entire supply of chilled mutton and beef for the remainder of the war. Wars require uniforms, bandages and clothes and since other countries need them, all the wool clip purchased at 55% above p...... half of the paper....... Women's wages began to rise . The armed forces began to employ women as drivers, cooks, warehouse workers, clerks, telephone operators and administrative workers. It was soon recognized that women were more than competent in a variety of tasks, including managing farms and businesses. This recognition in turn fueled the demand for greater rights and greater freedom. This led to a new independence among women and permanently changed Australian society. Technology Australia's involvement in the First World War saw advances in technology available to all Australians. By 1918, early models of continuous wave wireless radio sets and "spark" or "circuit" radio sets were becoming more widely used as a result of the military's technological advances. For a country as large as Australia, effective radio communications have made a significant difference to the country's ability to develop.