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Dutch sail to Australia
The Dutch sailed to Australia, were attacked by Aborigines, and abandoned further exploration. -
Captain James Cook claimed Australia for England
English sailors claim Australia for England under the leadership of Captain James Cook. -
Prisoners settle in Australia
The "First Fleet", a set of ships, transports British convicts to Australia. -
Boundaries Set
Australian government sets up the official boundaries for the colonies. These boundaries are still in place today, serving as the boundaries for the states and territories. -
Shipping of Prisoners Ceased
The Britished ended the transportation of convicts to Australia. -
Commonwealth of Australia
The Commonweatlh of Australia, a self-governing territory associated with Britain, was established. -
Canberra becomes capital
Canberra, a major city in Australia, becomes capital. -
Laws are passed for Aborigines
The federal government of Australia begins to pass legislation to help Aborigines (natives of Australia). -
Voters reject becoming independent republic
55% of Australian voters reject the idea of becoming an independent republic. -
Australia Act
All of Australia's legal ties with the British government were severed.
