Timeline: The history of Australia

Foundation of the Colony of New South Wales

Jan 26, 1788

Captain Arthur Phillip arrives in Botany Bay with the First Fleet. This marks the beginning of European colonization and the deportation of British convicts to Australia.

Creation of Western Australia

1829

The British Empire extends its control and establishes the Swan River Colony, which later becomes Western Australia.

Gold Rush and Mass Immigration

1851

The discovery of gold in New South Wales and Victoria attracts thousands of immigrants from around the world, transforming the Australian economy and society.

Federation of Australia

Jan 1, 1901

The six British colonies (New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania) unite to form the Commonwealth of Australia. This is a major step towards independence, but the country remains under British authority.

Statute of Westminster

1931

The United Kingdom grants full legislative autonomy to its dominions, including Australia. Australia formally adopts this law in 1942, retroactively to 1939.

Creation of Australian Citizenship

Jan 26, 1949

Until this date, Australians were considered British subjects. From now on, they have their own national identity.

Australia Act: Full Legal Independence

Mar 2, 1986

The Australia Act ends any possibility of British parliamentary intervention in Australian affairs. Australia becomes fully sovereign.