John Curtin

A former newspaper editor, John Curtin was best known for his foray into politics, where he established a career. He became prime minister in late 1941, just before the beginnings of war in the Pacific.

Curtin intensified the war effort, brought some Australian troops back from the Middle East to defend Australia, and convinced Australians to support an enduring defence alliance with the USA. Curtin died a month before the war ended in the Pacific, never seeing the outcome he had worked so hard for.

Prime minister from 7 October 1941 to 5 July 1945.