Part B – Written response
Question:

Explain the impact on Australia of the Japanese attacks on Darwin and
Sydney Harbour. In your response, use Sources 1 and 2, and your own
knowledge.

Add your response of no more than 500 words here. You do not need to write
an introduction and conclusion.

List of Resources:

Source 1

Source 2
The darkest year in Australian history was 1942. For the only time since Federation,
the country was threatened by a foreign power seeking control of Australian waters
and trade routes. Although Imperial Japanese forces were not planning to invade or
occupy the continent, they were determined to divert or attack *seaborne cargoes,
destroy Australian military facilities and disrupt life around the Top End. There was
enormous symbolism and substance associated with the bombing of Darwin in
February 1942. Not only would the town and the port be *debilitated, the attack
would also demonstrate the *potency of Japan’s forces and the vulnerability of
Australia’s defences. The attack was, then, a turning point in the Australian war
effort. While Australia had previously looked to alliances to provide the ships, aircraft
and people needed for its security, it was now clear that responsibility ultimately
rested with Australia.
Tom Frame, “The Bombing of Darwin and Australian Nationalism”, Quadrant, 2009