Second Army (Australia)

The Second Army was a formation of the Australian Army during World War II. It was primarily responsible for the defence of eastern Australia, encompassing the states of New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. Formed in April 1942 from the existing Eastern Command, its initial task was to coordinate the defence of this vital region against potential Japanese invasion.

The Second Army oversaw a significant portion of Australia's militia and Australian Imperial Force (AIF) troops stationed in the east. It was responsible for constructing defensive infrastructure, conducting training exercises, and planning for various invasion scenarios. Units under its command carried out coastal defence duties and maintained internal security.

Throughout the war, the Second Army's composition and structure changed as troops were deployed to other theaters of operations, particularly New Guinea. It acted as a crucial administrative and logistical hub, supporting the war effort in the Pacific. While it did not engage in large-scale offensive operations, the Second Army played a vital role in maintaining Australia's home front security and supporting the nation's overall war strategy. The Second Army was disbanded in February 1945.