Norman Lindsay created the image for this recruitment poster, issued by the Director-General of Recruiting at Victoria Barracks. It shows a classical 'Australia', unarmed and with no head covering to emphasise her vulnerability. Her open hands indicate serried ranks of infantry, who extend as far as the eye can see, as she entreats the reader, 'Will You Join them'. The flag carried at the head of the troops is the Australian Red Ensign.
The poster includes detailed information about enlistment, including rates of pay, which ranged from 6 shillings per day (once embarked on overseas service) for a private, to 21 shillings per day for a Lieutenant. An additional 'separation' allowance was paid to men earning less than 10 shillings per day, at the rate of two shillings per day for a wife and sixpence per day for each child.
Drawn by Norman Lindsay
Courtesy Public Record Office Victoria
