HISTORIC TIMELINE
1788British Colonisation Begins
The penal colony of New South Wales was established by British settlers.
1890Responsible Government Achieved
All six colonies of Australia gained responsible government by this year.
1901Federation of Australia
The colonies federated to form the Commonwealth of Australia.
1942Statute of Westminster Adoption
Australia adopted the Statute of Westminster, furthering its autonomy from the UK.
1986Australia Acts Enacted
The Australia Acts ended the power of UK parliament over Australia, confirming independence.