Very few missionaries from North America were allowed to enter Australia during World War I and for a considerable period thereafter. Elder Austin N. Tolman, working in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, wrote an account in August 1917 explaining how the mission was still able to function:

Our missionary force is very slim, there being only two missionaries in New South Wales. We are, however, able to keep up the work through the untiring assistance of the local Priesthood. One or two nights each week is spent by the local elders in visiting Saints and investigators.

The labors of the brethren are bearing fruit and the Saints in general are responding to their duties. Tithes and offerings are better than for some years past and meetings are well attended. A concession has recently been made by the Australian government for twenty-four more elders from Zion to take the place of the elders recently released. These elders will find us very much alive, but we are anxious to welcome them and have plenty of work ahead.”