17th Brigade (Australia)

The 17th Brigade was a formation of the Australian Army that served during World War II. Raised in 1940 as part of the 6th Division, it consisted of four infantry battalions: the 2/3rd, 2/5th, 2/6th, and 2/7th Battalions.

The brigade's initial deployment was to North Africa, where it participated in the early stages of the Western Desert Campaign. It saw significant action during the Battle of Bardia and the Battle of Tobruk in 1941. Following the fighting in North Africa, the 17th Brigade was withdrawn to Australia in 1942 due to the increasing threat posed by Japan in the Pacific.

Upon returning to Australia, the brigade was reorganized and deployed to New Guinea. It played a crucial role in the Kokoda Track campaign, where its battalions fought a fierce defensive action against the advancing Japanese forces. Later, the 17th Brigade participated in the Battle of Buna–Gona, enduring heavy casualties during the fighting in the Papuan jungles.

Following the campaigns in Papua, the 17th Brigade was involved in further operations in New Guinea, including actions around Wau and Salamaua. It was eventually withdrawn from active service in late 1944.

After the war, the 17th Brigade was disbanded as part of the demobilization process.