Monday 22nd March, 1897
In early Australian history, the country was governed by six separate administrating bodies: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia.
In the late 1800s, Edmund Barton came to the forefront of Australian politics. As a member of the Legislative Council, he showed support for the federation of Australia — joining all the colonies under one government. In his campaigning over several positions he held, he nurtured support for federation amongst the people, and continued to campaign even when he didn’t hold a position.
By 1897 Barton was recognised as the leader of the federation movement. In March 1897, Edmund Barton lead the convention to discuss the constitution for the Commonwealth of Australia. Many further amendments and discussions took place, until the bill for federation finally passed in June 1899. Royal Assent was received in July 1900, and on the 1st January, 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia was officially proclaimed.
Edmund Barton went on to become the first Prime Minister of Australia, and was knighted in 1902, becoming Sir Edmund Barton.
In hind sight, Australian politics is quite interesting, but I must admit modern politics is a big turn-off for me. Do you enjoy keeping an eye on the politics of our country?
Romancing The Rock 