TLF ID M025373
Following World War II, the Australian government was eager to increase the country’s population. The war reminded Australians that their small population would not withstand an enemy invasion. Further, a larger workforce was needed to develop the postwar economy. European people, many displaced by the war and the spread of communism, were encouraged to emigrate to Australia. For some, their first experience of the new country was the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre in north-east Victoria.