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How Did The Great Depression Affect Australia In The 1930's

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The Great Depression of the 1930’s saw Australia’s industrialised society suffer due to economic deprivation. However, widespread suffering was not equally experienced as unemployment levels soared mostly amongst the working class. Unemployment broke down the pride of men, whilst women faced stereotypes and indigenous people were racially discriminated against. Rural workers such as farmers struggled to sell their produce as spending declined. The depression impacted veterans greatly as they returned with emotional baggage to the burden of unemployment. Conversely, a majority of the upper class came out of the depression unscathed and their lavish lifestyle continued largely unaffected.
Farmers were in the midst of ruin; exports suffered, …show more content…
As rich people had a sufficient income, they were required to pay taxes which were used to administer charity events, much to their disapproval. Children, who were fortunate, were schooled, whereas poor children were required to search for jobs at minimal wages or become domesticated so their parents could explore work opportunities. Public schools had crowded classes and services were in short supply. Slum children scavenged around looking for leftovers; poor children had a diet of stale loafs and drippings. In South Australia the last drops of water were salvaged; “Blocks were wrapped in newspaper so they could be rationed longer.” , whereas wealthy families would cook hearty meals of meat and vegetables. Wealthy investors of the stock market lost money although they didn’t suffer as much, as the value of their assets increased. During the depression, their wealth increased, as the expenses of sustenance and accommodation declined therefore lavish social lifestyles such as having a car for transportation, fashion, access to phones and fancy parties

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