Australian economic and social difficulties brought about by the 1930s depression

Subject  > History Term Papers  > Australian History

Notes on the effect the Depression had in Australia During the Great Depression, Australia's economy collapsed, unemployment figures soared, sugar/wheat and wool prices fell and society was forced to experience the physical and tormenting effects of it first hand. The Depression caused political and social upheaval in all the western countries it affected, but Australia was hit the worst. The structure of Australia's entire economy was based on overseas dependence of imports, exports and loans. The country had relied too much on its unstable primary industry and hadn't developed its own sources. Society was damaged, as more people lost their jobs, couldn't find employment, or those who had jobs had to work less money and longer hours. Men were considered the "bread winners" ...

... lost their homes and were forced to build temporary homes out of rubbish materials like cardboard and wood. These 'shanty towns' were usually located near rivers or in public parks. The government provided a financial supplement called the 'susso' for all the individuals who had no money and food. Rationing was used in clothes departments and for food. 'Handme' downs became common, and men's suits were redesigned to save on materials. The upper class of Australian society were not affected by the Depression to the extent of the rest of Australia's population. The Scullin Government had a hard job and different measures were tackled to change the situation. The Theodore, Jack Lang and Sirotto Niemger Plans were introduced

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