Australia's First Spies: The remarkable story of Australian intelligence operations, 1901-45

Australia was born with its eyes wide open, and politicians immediately set about protecting Australia's interests from the Germans, Japanese, and Britain. John Fahey's book, Australia's First Spies, reveals the first account of Australia's intelligence operations in the years from Federation to World War II, showcasing the stories of dedicated patriots who undertook dangerous operations to protect their new nation. It also exposes the bureaucratic mismanagement in World War II that cost many lives and compromised Australia's standing with its wartime allies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 456 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2018
Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Australia, from its inception, emerged with a keen awareness of its surroundings. While politicians publicly expressed allegiance to Britain and the empire, they harbored secret intentions to safeguard Australia's interests from a multitude of adversaries. Among these were the Germans, the Japanese, and even Britain itself.

John Fahey, an accomplished intelligence officer with extensive experience in delving into government files, has painstakingly compiled the first comprehensive account of Australia's intelligence operations during the period from Federation to World War II. Through his meticulous research, he unveils the untold stories of dedicated patriots who risked their lives to protect their fledgling nation, despite lacking proper training and support. Fahey highlights how Australia's early adoption of advanced radio technology played a significant role in aiding the war effort in Europe. He also exposes the bureaucratic mismanagement that occurred during World War II, resulting in countless lives lost and compromising Australia's standing with its wartime allies to a significant extent.

Australia's First Spies reveals a hitherto concealed aspect of Australia's international prowess, suggesting that the nation has consistently been more astute in its dealings than the historical record would suggest. The book offers a glimpse into the secret history of Australia, shedding light on the nation's strategic maneuvers and its unwavering commitment to safeguarding its interests.

Weight: 618g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781760631208