Project Showcase: "Our Stories" from the Australian Army

19 June 2012 – editors

The Australian Army has a powerful story to tell. Our soldiers have contributed to shaping the Australian nation through service in war and peace operations for over 101 years. The popular focus of Australia’s military history tends to be on World War One, World War Two, Korea and Vietnam. Modern conflict and warfare is often relegated to the realms of journalism and popular culture. As a result, the history of Australia’s modern Army is largely hidden. Our Stories overcomes this silence. Through rare oral histories, videos and photographs it captures soldiers’ voices and images; revealing a complex, emotive and captivating history.  

Our Stories is multimedia rich, harnessing the power of digital technology to engage audiences worldwide. It documents the history of the Australian Army from 1989 – the end of the Cold War. This momentous event caused a shift in global conflict from largely inter- to intra-State violence. As a result, Australia became increasingly involved in operations in support of global peace. Army has been at the forefront of Australia’s efforts.

At present, Our Stories houses materials from five areas of operation – Cambodia, Somalia, Bougainville, Timor-Leste (East Timor) and Afghanistan. The website can be navigated by operation or theme, enabling you to explore according to your interests. In the coming months and years, Our Stories will grow to include accounts of additional operations and key themes. We invite you to come back regularly and discover why the Australian Army is so proud of its people and history.

~ Corinne Manning