In 1943, the 10th/48th Australian Infantry Battalion was gazetted as an "AIF" unit; as more than three-quarters of the unit volunteered for overseas service, this status meant that the battalion could be deployed outside Australian territory. Nevertheless, it remained in the Northern Territory, undertaking garrison duties in Darwin and its surrounding areas.
In 1943, the 10th/48th Australian Infantry Battalion was officially recognized as an "AIF" unit due to a high number of volunteers for overseas service. This status allowed them to be deployed outside Australia, but they remained stationed in the Northern Territory and performed garrison duties in Darwin and its vicinity.