This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps (WRAAC). On 12 February 1951, Lieutenant‑Colonel Kathleen Best was appointed the first Director of the Corps, and it was officially formed and began enlistment in April 1951.
The WRAAC provided opportunities for women to serve in non-combat roles within the Army. Members worked both in Australia and overseas, often supporting operational units. In the 1960s, women began to take on more specialised technical roles, expanding their contribution and expertise within the Army.
In 1985, the WRAAC was disbanded, and women were fully integrated into the regular Australian Army, gaining access to most roles previously open only to men. Serving women often left home for extended periods, balancing service with family responsibilities and personal relationships at a time when such commitments by women were not widely supported socially.
The WRAAC played a crucial role in normalising women’s service in the military. Thank you for your service and for paving the way for future generations of women in the Australian Defence Force.
On the weekend 14th and 15th February 2026 ,the WRAAC Association celebrate their 75th year with a reunion in Perth. We have 6 WRAAC members at the Northam RSL Sub Branch. Three Sub Branch members traveled to Perth. Pat Rumjantsev and Donna Prytulak OAM were the last two leave after laying some yellow roses at that Women’s memorial this morning.
Hope you enjoyed the rest of the weekend catching up with others. Some members have traveled from the East Coast for the reunion.
Northam RSL Sub Branch 