-
the first
Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales, urges the colonies to federate. -
Period: to
jt time line
-
the 2
The first National Australasian Convention is held in Sydney and drafts a constitution -
the 3
A special premier's conference agrees to hold a new federation convention -
the 5
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. -
the4
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.