Australia's Federation

Introduction and Persuasion for Federation

May 17, 1889

Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales introduces the idea of Federation and persuades other colonies to unite as a nation.

Referendums held in the six colonies

Jun 16, 1889

Recommendations for drafting the Constitution for the Commonwealth of Australia.

Jul 20, 1890

A national convention is recommended by The Australasian Federation Conference to draft a constitution for the Commonwealth of Australia.

National Australasian Conference

Jun 13, 1891

Held in Sydney, a draft for the constitution is constructed. However due to economic depressions the colonie's interest in federation is lost (1991-1994)

Negotitation and Persuasion for Federation

Period: Jun 16, 1893 to Jun 16, 1899

Presentation of the Constitution to the British Parliament

Jun 16, 1900

Queen Victoria signs the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act

Jul 9, 1900

The Proclamation of the Commonwealth of Australia

Jan 1, 1901

Commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed in Centennial Park, Sydney.

First Commonwealth Elections

Mar 29, 1901

First Commonwealth elections held.

Period: Mar 29, 1901 to Mar 30, 1901