1st character is the state code (an alphabetic character) - N, V, Q, W, S or T for the appropriate state/territory. Australian Capital Territory is included in New South Wales (N) and Northern Territory with South Australia (S).

Next 7 characters are the file number, made up of:
War code + numeric digits, where:
if War code is 1 alphabetic character, add 6 numeric characters (ANNNNNN)

Where there is no war code as is the case with World War 1 veterans, insert a blank and add 6 numeric characters ( NNNNNN)

if War code is 2 alphabetic characters, add 5 numeric characters (AANNNNN)
if War code is 3 alphabetic characters, add 4 numeric characters (AAANNNN)

The 9th character is the segment link. For dependents of veterans, the 9th character is always an alphabetic character. The alphabetic code is generated in the order by which the cards are issued. For example A, B, C, D etc.

CAUTIONARY NOTE: For veterans the 9th character is left blank