Increased Sexual Activity: The war brought about a general increase in sexual activity due to several factors. The separation of husbands and wives during the war, coupled with the influx of foreign soldiers, led to a rise in casual sexual encounters and extramarital affairs.
Relaxed Social Norms: The wartime atmosphere contributed to a relaxation of traditional social norms and moral codes. The urgency and uncertainty of the war made people prioritize immediate pleasures, resulting in a more permissive attitude toward sexual behavior.
Premarital Sex: Premarital sex, which was previously considered taboo, became more common as societal attitudes became more liberal. The war created a sense of urgency and heightened emotions, leading many couples to engage in sexual relationships before marriage.
Female Empowerment: The war saw an increase in the participation of women in the workforce, which contributed to their economic and social empowerment. This newfound independence allowed women to have greater control over their sexuality and make choices about their own bodies.
Homosexuality: Homosexuality remained largely illegal and socially stigmatized during World War II. However, there were some underground gay and lesbian communities in Australia, and the war provided opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals to socialize and express their identities more openly.
Sex Work: Sex work increased during World War II due to the presence of military personnel and the shortage of women in the general population. Prostitution, though illegal, thrived in areas near military bases and urban centers.
Government Regulation: The Australian government implemented measures to regulate sexuality during the war. These included strict censorship of media and entertainment, as well as campaigns that promoted moral behavior and discouraged sexual promiscuity.
Legacy and Post-War: The changes in sexuality during World War II had a lasting impact on Australian society. The post-war period witnessed a continuation of some of these trends, including more liberal attitudes towards premarital sex and increased openness about LGBTQ+ identities. However, societal attitudes towards sexuality also experienced backlash and conservatism in the years following the war.