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Sydney to Melbourne rail link
complition of Sydney-Melbourne -
sir henery parks
Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales, urges the colonies to federate -
the first Australasian
The first National Australasian Convention is held in Sydney and drafts a constitution. -
another confence
A second people's conference in Bathurst, New South Wales, renews calls for another federation convention -
THE SECRET MEETING
In January the premiers hold a secret meeting and agree to several changes to the constitution.
Between April and July referendums are held in South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania at which a majority vote 'yes' to the bill. In September Queensland voters endorse the constitution. -
delegation
In March a delegation travels to London to present the constitution to the British Parliament.On 5 July the British Parliament passes the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act.On 9 July Queen Victoria signs the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act. On 31 July Western Australia holds a referendum at which an overwhelming majority of voters approve the Constitution. -
end of federation.
On 1 January the Commonwealth of Australia is proclaimed in Centennial Park, Sydney.
On 29 and 30 March the first Commonwealth elections are held.
On 9 May the Duke of Cornwall and York (later King George V) opens the first Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia in the Exhibition Building in Melbourne.
