ProvenanceOn 28 October 1916 a referendum was held on the issue of conscription for the Australian armed forces. The proposal for conscription was narrowly defeated. Another referendum was held in December 1917 on the same issue. Badges were produced to encourage and show support for the pro-conscription campaigns.SignificanceIllustrative of the badges that were popular as a means of raising funds or showing support for particular organisations or causes. This and other associated badges are a rich source of evidence on the material and cultural history of Australia, particularly during wartime. The symbols, colours and mottoes used on the badges themselves also express ideas about the values and identity that Australians held in the early to mid-twentieth century.DescriptionCircular badge: printed paper between tin base and celluloid cover. White background - Australian red ensign and British flags crossed. Marked 'Oct 28 1916' 'Vote Yes'. Produced for conscription referendum.Date of Creation1916Date of Usage1916MaterialTin
|paper
|celluloid Accession NumberHT 1986.0068
