-
British ships land in Australia with convicts and settlers. This marks the start of European settlement. -
The British officially create the New South Wales colony. -
Britain sends many prisoners to Australia to serve their sentences and help build the colony. -
British explorers map the Australian coast and inland areas, setting up more colonies. -
Fights between British settlers and Indigenous Tasmanians result in many deaths and the displacement of native people. -
Gold is found in New South Wales and Victoria, attracting lots of people and boosting the economy. -
The six colonies join to form the Commonwealth of Australia, becoming a self-governing country within the British Empire. -
Australia gains full legal independence from Britain. -
Australia welcomes millions of immigrants to grow the population and economy. -
The High Court recognizes Indigenous land rights in the Mabo case, leading to significant changes.