Strategic situation
At the time of the outbreak of World War 1 in 1914, Australia was a small and relatively new nation. It had only recently gained independence from the British Empire in 1901, and it had a population of just over 5 million people.
Australia's geographic position made it vulnerable to attack from Germany, which was the main enemy of the Allied forces during World War 1. Germany had a strong navy and was seeking to expand its territory in the Pacific Ocean.
If Germany had won the war, it is possible that Australia would have been invaded. This would have had a devastating impact on the country, as it would have lost its sovereignty, its economy would have been ruined, and its people would have been subjected to German rule.
Political alliances
Australia was a member of the British Empire, and when Britain declared war on Germany in 1914, Australia was automatically drawn into the conflict.
There was a strong sense of loyalty to Britain among Australians, and many Australians were eager to fight alongside their fellow Britons. However, there was also a significant amount of anti-war sentiment in Australia. Many Australians believed that the war was a European conflict and that Australia should not be involved.
Economic interests
Australia's economy was heavily dependent on trade with Britain and other Allied countries. If Australia had remained neutral during the war, it would have risked losing this trade, which would have had a devastating impact on the economy.
Some Australians also believed that the war represented an opportunity for Australia to expand its territory and its influence in the Pacific Ocean.
Conclusion
There is no easy answer to the question of whether Australia should have gone to World War 1. There are a variety of factors to consider, and there is no clear consensus among historians.
However, it is important to remember that the decision to go to war was made by the Australian government, and it was a decision that was supported by a majority of Australians at the time.
The decision to go to war had a profound impact on Australia. It led to the deaths of tens of thousands of Australian soldiers, and it had a lasting impact on the country's economy and society.