Design Problems from the Army.
![](http://www.austbuttonhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screen-Shot-2023-01-17-at-2.06.25-pm.png)
The Canberra Times. I am not sure if these are buttons are being referred to, but many collectors will be aware the coating on some “Staybrite” anodised uniform buttons did not wear well.
![](http://www.austbuttonhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screen-Shot-2023-01-17-at-1.54.18-pm.png)
Army newspaper, 21st April 1983 page 11.
See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/REL33211
The term “housewife” dates back to the second half of the nineteenth century, when soldiers were issued with a pouch containing spare buttons, cotton, etc. The term is now considered as being sexist.