SOLDIER SETTLEMENT

In 1946, the Victorian Government set up the Soldier Settlement Commission under the Soldier Settlement Act, for the rehabilitation of ex servicemen from the 1939-45 War. Under the Act, the Commission was given power to acquire land from private landowners and set apart suitable areas of Crown Land. The land was sub-divided into holdings considered sufficient for efficent operation.

The object of the Commission was to develop and improve each holding to the stage when it could be brought into production by the settler in a reasonable time. This included the erection of a house, farm structures (woolshed, utility shed, garage) fencing and water supply.

The settler's liability was fixed by making a valuation of each holding, having regard to long term yields and prices of products the block was capable of producing.

All applicants were classified by the Commission as to the eligibility and suitability for settlement. Personal interviews were conducted.

The holdings were advertised in the press as they became available. The final allocation was made by the Commission, having regart to merits and farm experience of individual applicants.

Subject to availability accommodation, the selected applicant occuptied the block while the Commission continued development of the holding until essential development was completed and a reasonable income could be expected.

Where possible the settler was expected to contribute towards the purchase of stock, plant and equipment but could obtain financial asistance from the Commission for this purpose, if required. In this case, the money advanced would be added to the purchase cost.

Repayment was by instalments under a Purchase Lease, with interest at 2% per annum over 55 years, Freehold title to be obtained on completion of repayments. Freehold Title could not be obtained under six years, even if larger repayments should be made.

Under this scheme, 545 properities (1,193,171 acres) were acquired by the Soldier Settlement Commission, plus 40,000 acres of former Crown Land. 1,180,669 acres of the total area was sub-divided into 3,048 Soldier Settlement blocks.


* Summary of Activities of Soldier Settlement Commission - Rural Finance Commission, Melbourne.
Original manuscript, early 1960's.