Hi Ron,
The expression 'Army Headquarters' (AHQ) didn't appear until about 1921 to describe the higher command establishment of the Australian Military Forces. Prior to this it was known as HQ, or previously Central Administration.
In early 1942 it became General Headquarters (Australia), then Headquarters Allied Land Forces (LHQ) until 1945 when it became HQ Australian Military Forces, followed in 1946 by a return to AHQ. About 1973 it became Army Office.
The badge itself appears to be that of the Administrative and Instructional Staff 1904-1921 from the silver/gilt/red enamel colours used. In 1921 all corps and regimental badges were abolished in the Australian army until 1930, the gilt or brass 'rising sun' was worn by all officers, and all ORs of the Permanent Forces. ORs of the CMF wore oxidised copper 'rising suns'. Warrant officers of the CMF were allowed to wear brass 'rising suns' from 1928.
The armlet of an army HQ was red/black/red divided horizontally and this was used to distinguish officers on the staff of AHQ up until the time it became GHQ (Aust), at which time the armlet colours changed to red over blue.
In summary I suggest this card dates from about 1921-1930, and perhaps a bit later, but no later than 1942 and not prior to 1921.
Cheers, Keith
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11-07-15, 04:16 PM
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