3 September	The Prime Minister of Australia announces the Proclamation of War.
	December	The Trinidad Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve is formed to carry out patrol work and help distribute supplies to the islands of the West Indies.
	June	The British Cabinet discuss the evacuation of women and children from Hong Kong. Eventually over 2,000 people are evacuated from Hong Kong.
		First troops from Cyprus arrive in France.
	Summer	Men in the Royal West African Frontier Force arrived in Kenya to participate in the East African campaign.
	Autumn - Winter	Aircraft from Italy start a bombing campaign in Malta.
	6 June	Australia allows married women to be employed by the Commonwealth Public Service for the first time.
	June	The African Auxiliary Pioneer Corps is formed to serve in the Middle East.
	Autumn - Winter	Malaya introduces petrol rationing.
	8 December	Japan invades Malaya.
	25 December	Japan captures Hong Kong.
	3 January	Japan captures Manila.
	15 February	Japan captures Singapore.
	19 February	Japan attacks the port of Darwin in Australia.
	15 April	The island of Malta is awarded the George Cross in recognition of its 'heroism and devotion'.
	April	Australia reduces the speed limit from 40mph to 30mph to reduce wear on tyres.