Major Dates in Australian History. By disassaign Jan 1, 1770 English Lieutenant James Cook's expedition in HM Bark Endeavour charts the eastern coast of Australia. Jan 26, 1788 The British First Fleet, led by Governor Arthur Phillip arrives in New South Wales. Jan 1, 1854 The Eureka Stockade Jan 1, 1901 Australia becomes a federation & the first parliament meets in Melbourne. Apr 25, 1915 April 25th, Anzacs at Gallipoli. Jan 1, 1942 Darwin is attacked. Sep 15, 2000 Hosted Olympic Games, Sydney.