In 1942 there was a very real possibility of a Japanese invasion of the Australian mainland. At that time Australia lacked any modern fighters to defend itself. In five months the Commonwealth Aircraft Company designed and built a fighter using as much as the Wirraway trainer as possible and the most powerful engine available, the Pratt and Whitney Twin Wasp.
The prototype first flew on May 29th with deliveries beginning in October, with squadron service beginning in March 1943. By this time however, Spitfires from the UK and P40's from the USA had arrived, largely removing the need for the Boomerang. The final Boomerang was delivered in 1945.

Five squadrons of the RAAF flew the Boomerang in action against the Japanese. In action, although not outclassed the Boomerang proved to be lacking in speed and altitude capability. However because of it's heavy armament and agility the Boomerang was a capable ground attack aircraft. The Boomerang excelled in this role and saw action in Bougainville and New Guinea.