The 17th Brigade was ordered home and after a period garrisoned in Ceylon (Sri Lanka), arrived in Australia in August 1942. The 17th Brigade was shipped to Milne Bay, Papua in October. The 17th Brigade was air-lifted to Wau, New Guinea in January 1943, and took part in the Battle of Wau, where the opposing Japanese force suffered heavy losses. For his actions, Moten was awarded a Bar to his Distinguished Service Order. The 17th Brigade repulsed Japanese assaults at Mubo and Lababia Ridge and following the capture of Komiatum and Mount Tambu in August, Moten was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire and again mentioned in despatches. The 17th Brigade returned to Australia for rest and regrouping and later returned to New Guinea for the Aitape–Wewak campaign. Moten took command of the 6th Division from 18 November 1945.