Pacific 360: Australia's Battle for Survival in World War II

The compelling story of Australia's desperate fight for survival during World War ll.

The compelling story of Australia's desperate fight for survival during World War II.

Previously published as Pacific 360

In the dark days following the fall of Singapore in Februrary 1942, Australia faced its toughest battle yet. It was centrestage and under direct attack from seemingly invincible Japanese forces. Winston Churchill was demanding our best battle-hardened troops stay in North Africa while President Roosevelt called for them to fight the Japanese in Burma. But Prime Minister John Curtin insisted, in an act of defiance, that they return to defend their homeland.

Australia had never been more isolated strategically, politically and physically. Or less prepared.

In this masterful and gripping account, Roland Perry brings to life the bravery of our fellow Australians: from the forces engaged in brutal frontline fighting in the jungle, sea and air, to the backroom strategic campaigns waged by our politicians, and the sacrifices made on the home front.

The Fight for Australia is the rich and revealing story of how we, as a nation, fought for our very survival and stood up for our interests, against friend and foe alike.

Roland Perry is also the author of The Australian Light Horse and The Changi Brownlow.

'I can unashamedly recommend this very readable book, particularly as it fills in a major gap in Australia's history' - Major General Jim Barry (retired)