The ship was involved in the early days of reinforcements for Port Moresby and Milne Bay in New Guinea. In early September 1942, " 's Jacob" and left Townsville for Milne Bay in a convoy designated Q2 escorted by and later . On 5 September, the convoy was holding south of China Strait as Japanese naval forces were expected in Milne Bay that night. "Arunta" escorted "Anshun" into the port the next day with "Swan" and " 's Jacob" awaiting orders south of the strait where they were joined in the night by "Arunta". Meanwhile, "Anshun" was discharging cargo by lights when the port was attacked by Japanese surface forces and she was shelled and capsized by the light cruiser . " 's Jacob" entering Milne Bay was considered an unnecessary risk, and the escorts were ordered to Port Moresby until the situation stabilized.