 The exploits of the AIF at Gallipoli , and then on the Western Front , subsequently became central to the national mythology . In the years that followed much was made of ethos of the AIF , including its volunteer status and the quality of " mateship " . Yet many of the factors which had resulted in the AIF 's success as a military formation were not exclusively Australian , with most modern armies recognising the importance of small @-@ unit identity and group cohesion in maintaining morale . Many of the qualities that arguably defined the Australian soldier were also claimed by New Zealanders and Canadians as having been exhibited by their soldiers , whilst undoubtedly soldiers of the German , British and American armies also exhibited such traits , even if they were known by different terms . Objectively , the foundations of the AIF 's performance were more likely to have been military professionalism based on " discipline , training , leadership , and sound doctrine " . While the volunteer status of the AIF has been seen by some to explain its military performance , it was by no means unique in this regard . The status of their enlistment made little difference against the artillery , machine @-@ gun fire , and wire obstacles of modern industrial warfare at any rate . Equally , individual skill and morale proved to be less important than sound tactics , with effective fire and movement ultimately making the difference in 1918 . The Australians were not alone among the Allied armies in embracing such tactical innovations , while many of the new technologies and integrated weapon systems they relied upon were provided by the British Army . 
