Department of Aircraft Production
26 June 1941 – 1 November 1946
Wartime Department of State that ran Australia's military aircraft production, including the Beaufort and Beaufighter programs built in government factories and the work of private aircraft contractors.
How it came into existence
Created on 26 June 1941 by an Administrative Arrangements Order of the third Menzies ministry, which established the Aircraft Production, Home Security, Transport, War Organisation of Industry and External Territories departments together. It took over aircraft production, including the Beaufort bomber program, from the Department of Supply and Development and the Department of Munitions.
- Aircraft construction
- Beaufort bomber program
- Aircraft production
The research notes describe aircraft production as coming from both the supply and the munitions departments; the exact division is not confirmed.
Changes during its life
- Government aircraft factories at Fishermans Bend
- Military aircraft production
How it ended
Abolished on 1 November 1946, when the second Chifley ministry took office; its functions, including the government aircraft factories at Fishermans Bend, passed to the Department of Munitions.
- Aircraft and aero-engine production
- Government aircraft factories
Main functions
- Aircraft and aero-engine production for the RAAF
- Beaufort and Beaufighter manufacture (Beaufort Division)
- Government aircraft factories at Fishermans Bend and Mascot
- Contracts with private aircraft manufacturers
Lineage
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Sources
Government records and websites
Other sources
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.