Service records
The table below lists the different World War II service records we hold.
Collection references
| Title or description of record | Date range | Series number | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Second Australian Imperial Forces personnel dossiers* | 1939–47 | B883 |
| Citizen Military Forces personnel dossiers* | 1939–47 | B884 |
| Lists of Army personnel (Australian Military Force and Second Australian Imperial Force) | 1940–45 | A828 |
* Main records of service
What’s in World War II Army service records?
The records created by the Army during World War II typically comprise a set of forms:
- attestation (enlistment) form – sets out personal details such as age, next of kin and former occupation
- service and casualty form (Form B103) – records information about units and postings, injuries and disciplinary charges
- discharge form that summarises the person's service – not included in all cases
- head-and-shoulders photograph – may be included
- other documents or correspondence – occasionally included
Find and view a World War II service record online
Some online copies of World War II service records already exist.
- Go to NameSearch.
- Enter the family name of the service person – make sure it is the name used at enlistment.
- Select ‘World War II’ from the dropdown menu.
- Search.
- Display the results of your search. If there are too many, you can refine this search result, and then enter the person’s given names and/or service number.
- Use the link to ‘View digital copy’. You can also print a copy of the record.
Purchase a copy
To purchase an online copy or a colour print copy of a World War II service record:
- first locate the item using NameSearch (see above)
- use the ‘Request copy’ button
- complete your order using our secure eCommerce facility. Copying charges will apply.
View an original record
You can view a World War II service record in the National Archives Canberra reading room.
There are still many World War II service records that require clearance before they can be publicly viewed. If you wish to view a service record, please submit an advance request to view records form at least four weeks ahead of your visit or contact the National Reference Service. Please remember to indicate whether the service person is living or deceased when making your request.
Other contacts
Medals
Information about medal entitlements is available from Defence Honours and Awards; tel: 1800 111 321.
Pension information and entitlements
Veterans' Affairs Network
Tel: 133 254
Further information
For more information on Army records see:
You can also browse one of our other fact sheets on defence, armed services and war. It is also worth checking the World War II nominal roll.
