The Rocklea Munitions Works was one of the largest construction projects undertaken in Queensland in World War Two. It grew in importance as Australia’s most northerly ammunition manufacturing plant, particularly after fighting reached Papua and New Guinea. By reconditioning ammunition and overhauling aircraft engine for the Americans, it helped reduce Australia’s war debt by providing aid to the USA through Reciprocal Lend Lease. With its purpose-built factory buildings, the RMW provided a vital boost to Brisbane’s post-war industrial development.