Liam Child 6Blue Federation

Telegraph links

Jan 1, 1876

All main cities are linked by telegraph.

Bulletin published

Jan 31, 1880

First issue of The Bulletin was published.

The census

Jan 1, 1881

The first Australia-wide census. However, Aboriginal people were excluded.

Preparation of the constitution

Jan 1, 1883

Federal council formed to start preparing a constitution for federation.

Defence policy

Jan 1, 1889

Major General Sir Bevan Edwards suggests a uniform defence policy for the colonies.

Parkes delivers famous speech

Oct 24, 1889

Sir Henry Parkes delivers his famous speech at Tenterfield in favour for federation.

Constitution draft

Jan 1, 1890

First draft of the Constitution drawn up.

Strike!

Feb 1, 1891

Depression and strikes by the workers saying that they need less working hours because of the harsh hot weather.

First referendum

Jun 26, 1898

First referendum on federal Constitution; passed by Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia and defeated by New South Wales

Second referendum

Apr 1, 1899

Second referendum held, following amendments to the constitution; passed by New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Queensland.

Signing the constitution

Feb 26, 1900

Queen Victoria signs the Australian Constitution

Federation!

Jan 1, 1901

Commonwealth of Australia had agreed on the first of January 1901 that all colonies of Australia would join together and unit as one country.