Final answer:
The benefits of setting up an automotive manufacturing industry in Australia in the 1940s included economic growth, job opportunities, and improvements in infrastructure and lifestyle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The benefits of setting up an automotive manufacturing industry in Australia in the 1940s were both economic and social.
Economically, the industry provided job opportunities and stimulated economic growth. It created employment for many Australians, both directly in the manufacturing plants and indirectly in the supply chain. Additionally, it contributed to the development of related industries such as steel, rubber processing, and oil, which further boosted the overall economy.
From a social perspective, the automotive industry brought about significant changes in lifestyle and infrastructure. As more people gained access to cars, it led to the construction of new roads, motels, and restaurants. It also facilitated the transition from streetcar suburbs to automobile suburbs, providing increased mobility and convenience for individuals.