Allan Payne, born in Ballarat and a Jeweller by trade, enlisted in the 8th Infantry Battalion, B Company on 24 August 1914. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board Transport A24 Benalla on 19 October 1914. Pvte Payne was admitted to No. 2 Australian general Hospital as sick on 2 August 1915 but was discharged relatively quickly. On 9 April 1916 he received a field promotion to Corporal. However, on 24 April he received a gunshot wound to the left shoulder whilst in action in France which resulted in being transferred to hospital in England.

The wound, although non-fatal, proved troublesome and impeded Cpl Payne's ability to continue his tour of duty. He returned to Australia 13 February 1917 and received a medical discharge on 24 May 1917.
Tree No. 196