ASD stories

The Australian Signals Directorate has a rich history. ASD can trace its origins back to the Second World War then was formed as a peacetime signals intelligence organisation in Albert Park, Melbourne. To learn more about ASD’s roots and beginnings, read some of our stories.

WRANS telegraphists at work on morse code communications equipment at HMAS Harman 1955

The WRANS

The Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service (WRANS) entered into the realm of signals intelligence in 1941, thanks to the efforts of Australia’s first female electrical engineer, Florence Violet McKenzie OBE, otherwise known as Mrs Mac. She formed the voluntary civilian Women’s Emergency Signalling Corps (WESC) in 1939, aiming to train female wireless telegraphists that would not only replace men in civilian roles but could ultimately serve in the forces. As these women rose through the ranks of WESC, the scope of the school expanded and the women began to train prospective Australian servicemen.