Federation

What was Australia like before Federation?

Australia was made up of six separate British colonies, each with its own laws, railway systems, stamps, and taxes, governed with ultimate control by the British Parliament.

Why did people want Federation?

To solve economic and legal differences, create a strong national defense, restrict non-white immigration, and due to growing national pride.

Who was Sir Henry Parkes?

The Premier of New South Wales and a major supporter of Federation who promoted unification for a united defense force.

What were the Constitutional Conventions?

Meetings in the 1890s to draft the Australian Constitution, where leaders from all colonies decided the new country would be called the Commonwealth of Australia.

How did Federation become official?

Referendums held between 1899-1900 led to all colonies accepting the Constitution, followed by British Parliament legislation and Queen Victoria signing the document.

What changed after Federation?

A new Constitution was created, power was split between states and Commonwealth, with the Commonwealth gaining authority in various areas and establishing the Commonwealth Parliament and High Court.

What were the main arguments for Federation?

Stronger national government, removal of tariffs, centralization of services, and promotion of a unified national identity.

What were the arguments against Federation?

The costs of a national Parliament, fear of losing colonial identities, and concerns about weakening ties to Britain.

Who was excluded from the Federation process?

Women, except in South Australia and Western Australia, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were predominantly excluded.

What role did the British monarchy play in Federation?

The British monarch remained the head of state, with governing powers retained by the monarch, who signed the official Federation document.

What was the impact of Federation on Australia's governance?

It established a split of powers between state and Commonwealth government and created new institutions like the High Court.

What was the significance of the Tenterfield Oration?

Sir Henry Parkes' speech in 1889 called for Australian unification and defense, influencing the Federation movement.

What was the purpose of the referendums in 1899-1900?

To gauge the acceptance of the new Constitution by the colonies for the establishment of Federation.

What did the Commonwealth Parliament consist of?

The House of Representatives (lower house) which forms government and introduces laws, and the Senate (upper house) which reviews laws.

Which colonies participated in the Constitutional Conventions?

Leaders from all colonies participated, with New Zealand participating early but later choosing not to join Federation.

What key areas did the Commonwealth gain power over after Federation?

Defence, immigration, trade, foreign policy, and postal services.

Why was national pride a factor in the push for Federation?

Most Australians at the time were born in Australia, leading to a desire for a unified national identity.

What fears existed regarding the establishment of a national Parliament?

Concerns included the cost of maintaining a national government and the potential loss of local colonial identities.

How did the colonies vote regarding the Constitution?

All colonies eventually voted to accept the Constitution, with Western Australia voting in 1900.

Who primarily benefited from the Federation process?

The predominantly white male population, as women and Indigenous peoples faced exclusion from the voting process.

What was the role of Queen Victoria in the Federation process?

She signed the official Federation document in 1900, solidifying the transition to the Commonwealth of Australia.

What major legal body was established after Federation?

The High Court of Australia, responsible for interpreting laws and resolving disputes.

What event marked the official commencement of the Commonwealth of Australia?

The formation of the Commonwealth of Australia occurred on 1 January 1901.

What economic impact did Federation hope to achieve?

Removing tariffs between colonies to promote free trade and economic cooperation.

Which state was the last to vote on the Constitution for Federation?

Western Australia was the last colony to vote to accept the Constitution in 1900.

What was a major concern regarding immigration during the Federation period?

The desire to restrict non-white immigration was a significant part of the Federation movement.

How did Federation address Australia's defense concerns?

It aimed to create a united defense force to strengthen national security.

What was the long-term significance of the Commonwealth Parliament?

It established a framework for national governance and law-making in Australia.

What was the attitude of the British Parliament towards Australian Federation?

The British Parliament passed a law allowing Federation, supporting Australia's autonomy.

How did the idea of a unified national identity manifest pre-Federation?

Through a growing number of Australians born in the country and a desire for self-governance.

What was a consequence of the states' power division after Federation?

The establishment of a federal system with both state and Commonwealth governments sharing powers.

What was the public consensus on Federation during the referendums?

Most colonies showed support for Federation and the new Constitution, leading to its eventual passage.

What was the significance of the timing of the referendums?

They were held shortly before the turn of the century, symbolizing a new era for Australia.

What specific powers were not transferred to the Commonwealth?

Certain powers remained with the states, ensuring a balance in the federal system.

What historical context led to the emergence of the Federation movement?

The economic and social changes in the late 19th century, along with a desire for unity among colonies.

What mechanism was established to manage inter-colonial disputes post-Federation?

The High Court of Australia was created to interpret laws and settle disputes.

What legacy did Federation leave on Australia's political landscape?

It laid the foundation for Australia's democratic institutions and a system of federal governance.