Australia Timeline

James Cook claims New South Whales

Aug 22, 1770

James Cook discoveres and claims a portion of east Australia and names it New South Whales.

British in Australia

Jan 1, 1788

In 1788, the first settlers were convicted criminals from Britan that were exiled to Australia.

Australia's new capital, Adelaide

Mar 31, 1836

South Australia established, with Adelaide as its capital.

Colonists find gold in Australia.

Mar 30, 1851

Colonists of Australia discovered gold and the population of the region soared.

The first cricket match.

Mar 31, 1877

Australia and England play the first-ever cricket Test match in Melbourne.

The country is unified.

Jan 1, 1901

The Commonwealth of Australia comes into being on 1st January.

Canberra, the newest capital.

Mar 31, 1911

Canberra is founded and designated as the capital.

Australia is officially independant.

Mar 30, 1931

Australia nonviolently was given its freedom from Britan and disconected all ties with it.

Declairing War on Germany

Mar 31, 1939

Australia follows Britain's lead and declares war on Nazi Germany.

Uluru changes to Ayers Rock

Dec 15, 1993

On December 15, 1993, Uluru, named by the Aborigines, was renamed Ayers Rock after Sir Henry Ayers.