World War I  from 1914 to 1918

Australia's entry into World War I triggered enthusiastic enlistment into the defence forces. Only men could volunteer to fight, though women were accepted as nurses. Australia had an all-volunteer army throughout the war as attempts to introduce conscription were defeated in two referendums.

Men's swimming clubs and lifesaving clubs saw their ranks depleted as members enlisted for the war. Surf clubs continued to be active throughout the war years. Even with decreasing membership, surf clubs refused to accepted women as full members. Men's state and national swimming competitions were suspended to the war, but women's competitive swimming continued as normal.

Despite concerns that professional sport and even enjoyment of any form of sport or recreation during wartime was disrespectful of the loss of life and casualties associated with the war, beach holidays continued and coastal resorts developed their ocean baths to attract visitors and assist with landsales.

Development of a second ocean outfall for Sydney's sewage system at Malabar polluted the waters of Long Bay.

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