At the outbreak of warfare men left the household, leaving both the women and children to fend for themselves at such a tough time. Many perceived the woman’s role as staying at home and caring for the children, if they could do that they were a good wife. However it is often neglected that in fact these women actually have contributed more towards society and the war itself.

Besides staying at home, these women sought to join the workforce aiming to play their part in the war. With the absence of the men, there was a large shortage of people within the workforce. So these women have proved their capability by showing that what men can do so can women. Not only did these “wonder women” join the labour force, they also participated in war-related activities by taking up positions such as cooks, stretcher-bearers, motor car drivers, interpreters, munitions workers and many more. They were also very able in sense that they formed organisations that became very active during the war time for example: Australian Women’s National League, the Australian Red Cross, the Country Women’s Association, the Voluntary Aid Detachment, Women’s Christian Temperance Union, the Australian Women’s Service Corps, and the Women’s Peace Army.  Not to mention the fact that a large number of women actively involved in encouraging men to enlist.

 Even little girls were playing a part in this war; they knitted socks, mufflers, mittens and balaclava helmets during their lunchtimes and recesses. It is reasonable to infer that the women of World War 1 were indeed “Wonder Women”.

http://www.anzacday.org.au/history/ww1/homefront/women.html