Portraits of Courage

True stories of strength and spirit from Australian women who served across a century of war

Throughout Australia’s history, women have willingly and courageously stepped into the chaos of war, defying societal expectations and establishing a turning point in our national and military history. While they were largely prohibited from direct combat, thousands signed up, volunteered, and crossed oceans to unfamiliar, hostile lands. Many were nurses who served with courage and compassion, often under fire and working perilously close to the terrors of the front lines, as well as pioneering doctors, aviators, humanitarians, journalists and more.

The fourteen women whose stories are told within this deeply-researched collection were nothing short of exemplary, often facing intense emotional stress and life-threatening situations, yet never taking a backward step. Like so many other women at war, their stories – frequently overshadowed by narratives of men – reveal extraordinary bravery, resilience, and a fierce commitment to their causes, time and again risking everything for others.

They each served with great distinction and courage, often recognised with the highest civic and military awards for exceptional gallantry, and our nation can rightly be proud of these truly amazing women.