Royal Assent Granted to Australian Federation

July 9th, 1900

July 9th, 1900

Royal Assent Granted to Australian Federation
How Long Ago?

124 years, 8 months, 6 days ago

Location

London, United Kingdom

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Queen Victoria
  • Edmund Barton
  • Henry Parkes
  • John Forrest
Links & References
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Royal Assent Granted to Australian Federation

The Federation of Australia received royal assent from Queen Victoria, formalizing the union of the six Australian colonies into one nation. This landmark decision, approved on July 9, 1900, marked the culmination of years of discussions and negotiations, leading to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia. The legislation, known as the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, was a pivotal moment in Australia's national identity, granting it self-governance while remaining part of the British Empire.

Queen Victoria granted royal assent to the federation.

Australia's constitution established a federal government.

The act united six separate colonies into one nation.

First federal elections were held in 1901.

What Happened?

The granting of royal assent to the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act marked a significant milestone in the history of Australia. Following decades of debate and discussions about uniting the separate colonies, representatives from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania convened to draft a constitution. The primary aim was to address emerging national issues such as trade, defense, and immigration. On July 9, 1900, Queen Victoria's formal approval of the legislation transformed the political landscape of the Australian continent. This act did not only unite the colonies into a federated nation but also bestowed upon Australia the ability to govern its own affairs under a common constitution.The unification process was driven by a desire for greater economic and political stability, as the colonies had been experiencing challenges that were exacerbated by their disparate governance. Following the royal assent, Australia held its first federal elections in 1901, and the nation officially became a unified entity. The new government structure included a bicameral parliament, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives, and the establishment of a national capital, which would eventually be located in Canberra. The constitution provided a framework for the division of powers between the federal and state governments. The establishment of the Commonwealth laid the foundations for the modern Australian political system and directly influenced its subsequent development, including reforms related to civil rights and immigration.

Why Does it Matter?

The granting of royal assent to the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act is interesting because it symbolizes the birth of Australia as a nation. It marked a shift from colonial rule under the British Empire to self-governance, allowing Australia to forge its own national identity. This foundational moment in Australian history has had lasting implications, influencing the country's politics, society, and global standing.

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