Universal obligation in respect to service in the Citizen Forces

Proclamation announcing a scheme in which eligible men would attend a mandatory training camp, and thus be part of the Citizen Forces. Although the legality of the proclamation was challenged, large numbers of men were forced into service. This particular War Service Regulation preceded the defeat of the October 1916 conscription referendum by a mere few weeks. Many people were concerned that the introduction of the training camps was a presage to conscription. However, following the defeat of the referendum, the camps were closed down, leaving the Government with the problem of how to reinforce recruiting overseas.

This poster warns against the consequences of either refusing to enlist in the Citizen Forces, or counselling someone not to enlist. The maximum sentence was six months, with or without hard labour. The poster also warns against the consequences of either refusing to enlist in the Citizen Forces, or counselling someone not to enlist. The maximum sentence was six months, with or without hard labour. Text only, the poster is printed in black ink on white paper. It was authorised by T. Trumble, Acting Secretary, Department of Defence.