Abstract
This thesis examines the logistical support of the Australian Army’s operations in the
South West Pacific from January 1943 to August 1945. It begins by examining the
strategic context. Succeeding chapters then examine various topics, including doctrine,
base development, problems of storage and tropic proofing, inland water transport, road
construction, air supply, amphibious operations and the support of combat operations. In
this thesis I argue that the Australian Army’s logistical acumen and ability steadily grew
with each campaign, resulting in a highly effective military organisation that inflicted a
series of crushing defeats on the Japanese.