History of Australia, sourced from Wikipedia's "Timeline of Australian history".
Makassar people from the region of Sulawesi in Indonesia began visiting the coast of Northern Australia sometime around the middle of the 18th century, first in the Kimberley region, and some decades later in Arnhem Land. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
Several writers have argued that Portuguese expeditions visited Australia at this time. However, historians generally disagree and the evidence remains contentious. (to 1522) Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (16th century):
The Dutch East India Company (VOC) ship Duyfken, under Captain Willem Janszoon, explored the western coast of Cape York Peninsula, near what is now Weipa. This was the first recorded landfall by a European on Australian soil. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
Dutch captain Dirk Hartog in the Eendracht made the second recorded landfall by a European, at Dirk Hartog Island on the western coast of Australia. He left a commemorative plate, the Hartog Plate. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
VOC ship Mauritius under command of Supercargo Willem Janszoon, landed near North West Cape, near the modern town of Exmouth, and named Willem's River, later renamed Ashburton River. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
The English ship Tryall sighted Point Cloates on the west coast of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
Dutch captain Jan Carstensz navigated the Gulf of Carpentaria aboard the Pera and Arnhem. The Arnhem crossed the Gulf to reach and name Groote Eylandt. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
First white child in Australia was Born. Seebaer van Nieuwelant (born 27 July 1623), son of Willemtgen and Willem Janszoon, was born south of Dirk Hartog Island, in present-day Western Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
VOC ship Batavia wrecked on Houtman Abrolhos, off Geraldton. Mutiny ensued and at least 110 men, women and children were murdered. First European structure in Australia – Wiebbe Hayes Stone Fort on West Wallabi Island. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
Dutch explorer Abel Tasman explored the west coast of Tasmania, landed on its east coast and named the island Anthoonij van Diemenslandt. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
In 1656 the Vergulde Draeck struck a submerged coral reef midway between what are now the coastal towns of Seabird and Ledge Point, Western Australia. On board were 193 crew, eight boxes of silver coins worth 78,600 guilders and trade goods to the value of 106,400 guilders. Of the 193 crew, 118 are believed to have perished. The initial 75 survivors, including the ship's captain Pieter Albertszoon, and the under steersman, made it to shore. They had with them the ship's boat, a schuyt, along with a small amount of provisions and stores washed on shore. A number of rescue attempts was conducted by the Dutch East India Company once the loss was reported. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
English navigator John Daniel on the New London charted the west coast of Australia, including Rottnest Island and the Wallabi Group of the Houtman Abrolhos. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
English explorer William Dampier explored the west coast of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh charted the southwestern coast of Australia, making a landfall at Rottnest Island and the site of the present-day city of Perth. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (17th century):
English Lieutenant James Cook's expedition in charted the eastern coast, and claimed it for the British Crown. Australia was dubbed "terra nullius" i.e., according to the European legal precepts of the era, it was unclaimed by any sovereign nation. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
The First Fleet of 11 ships, led by Governor Arthur Phillip, departed from Great Britain for Australia to begin European colonisation. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
![Engraving depicting First Fleet arriving at Botany Bay in January 1788, with Indigenous Australians in canoes witnessing the arrival. In the background is Bare Island (left) and Cape Solander (right). From The voyage of Governor Phillip to Botany Bay : with an account of the establishment of the colonies of Port Jackson & Norfolk Island by Arthur Phillip. Original drawing by R. Cleveley, engraving by T. Medland. An engraving of the First Fleet in Botany Bay at voyage's end in 1788, from The Voyage of Governor Phillip to Botany Bay.[40] Sirius is in the foreground; convict transports such as Prince of Wales are depicted to the left.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/82/A_view_of_Botany_Bay_A1475003h_%28cropped%29.jpg/500px-A_view_of_Botany_Bay_A1475003h_%28cropped%29.jpg)
Captain Arthur Phillip of the (First Fleet), having decided to sail ahead of the rest of the fleet to prepare for the new settlement, sighted the coast of Van Diemen's Land. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
5 of 6 ships of the beleaguered Second Fleet arrived. The colony was gripped by a food crisis. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
The first ship of the Third Fleet arrived at Sydney Cove. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
Two French ships, and , anchor at Recherche Bay, near the southernmost point of Tasmania. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
Sydney Cove was wrecked and some survivors travelled from Bass Strait to Port Jackson, enabling the rescue of others. This also furthered knowledge of the geography of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
George Bass and Matthew Flinders sailed from Sydney and circumnavigated Tasmania, thus proving it to be an island. (to 1799) Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (18th century):
Matthew Flinders completed the first circumnavigation of the continent Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
A settlement was founded at Risdon on the Derwent River in Van Diemen's Land Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Rum Rebellion Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth crossed the Blue Mountains. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
John Oxley charts the Lachlan River Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Oxley charted the Macquarie River. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
A penal colony was founded at Moreton Bay, now the city of Brisbane. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The New South Wales western border was extended to 129° E. Van Diemen's Land was proclaimed. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
New South Wales established first settlement in Western Australia at King George Sound as a convict-supported military garrison, named Frederick Town but renamed Albany in 1832 Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The whole of Australia was claimed as British territory when Major Edmund Lockyer formally annexed the western portion in a ceremony at King George Sound. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Charles Sturt charted the Darling River. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Sturt arrived at Goolwa, having charted the Murray River. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Administration of King George Sound passes to Swan River Colony, convicts returned to New South Wales. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Swan River Colony had its name changed to Western Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The penal settlement of Port Arthur was founded in Van Diemen's Land. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Tolpuddle Martyrs are transported to Sydney and Hobart. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner established a settlement at Port Phillip, now the city of Melbourne. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Province of South Australia proclaimed with its western border at 132° E. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
First Prussian settlers arrived in South Australia; the largest group of non-British migrants in Australia at the time. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Paul Edmund Strzelecki became the first European to ascend and name Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Australia's first municipal authority, the City of Adelaide, was established, followed by Sydney City Council. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
New Zealand was proclaimed as a separate colony, no longer part of New South Wales. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Copper was discovered at Kapunda in South Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Australia's first parliamentary elections was held for the New South Wales Legislative Council (though voting rights are restricted to males of certain wealth or property). Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The ship Cataraqui was wrecked off King Island in Bass Strait. It is Australia's worst civil maritime disaster, with 406 lives lost. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Grand Orange Lodge of Australia is established. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Western Australia became a penal colony. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Australian Colonies Government Act [1850] granted representative constitutions to New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. These colonies set about writing constitutions which produced democratically progressive parliaments. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Victoria separated from New South Wales. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Francis Cadell, in preparation for the launch of his steamer service, explored the Murray River in a canvas boat, travelling downstream from Swan Hill. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
First paddle steamers on Murray River on the spring flood. From South Australia, the Lady Augusta captained by Francis Cadell, reached Swan Hill while Mary Ann captained by William Randell, made it as far as Moama (near Echuca). Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Eureka Stockade Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The transportation of convicts to Norfolk Island ceased. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Van Diemen's Land name changed to Tasmania. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Victorian Committee reported that a 'federal union' would be in the interests of all the growing colonies. However, there was not enough interest in or enthusiasm for taking positive steps towards bringing the colonies together. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Sydney and Melbourne linked by electric telegraph. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
wrecked off south-east coast of South Australia with the loss of 89 lives. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
John McDouall Stuart reached the centre of the continent. The South Australian border changed from 132° E to 129° E. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition occurred. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Stuart reached Port Darwin, founding a settlement there. Queensland's western border was moved to 139° E. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
South Australia took control of the Northern Territory which was previously part of the colony of New South Wales. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Great Fire of Brisbane Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Gold was discovered at Gympie, Queensland. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The transportation of convicts to Western Australia ceased. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Children of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are removed from their families by Australian and State government agencies. This practice lasted 100 years and is known as the Stolen Generation. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Overland Telegraph Line linking Darwin and Adelaide opened. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Uluru was first sighted by Europeans, and named Ayers Rock. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
strikes Old Reef off Bowen, North Queensland and sank with the loss of approximately 102 lives. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The first internationally recognised game of Test Cricket is played between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
First horse-drawn trams in Australia commenced operations in Adelaide. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The first congress of trade unions was held. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The bushranger Ned Kelly was hanged. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
First water-borne sewerage service in Australia commenced operations in Adelaide. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The opening of the Sydney–Melbourne railway. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Louisa Lawson established The Dawn: A Journal for Australian Women. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The completion of the railway network between Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Australian Federation Conference called a constitutional convention. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
A National Australasian Convention met and agreed on adopting the name "the Commonwealth of Australia," also drafting a constitution. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Corowa Conference (the "people's convention") called on the colonial parliaments to pass enabling acts, allowing the election of delegates to a new constitutional convention aimed at drafting a proposal and putting it to a referendum in each colony. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
South Australia became the first Australian colony, and the second place in the world, to grant women the right to vote, as well the first Parliament in the world to allow women to stand for office with the Constitutional Amendment (Adult Suffrage) Act 1894. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The premiers, except for those of Queensland and Western Australia, agreed to implement the Corowa proposals. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Bathurst Conference (the second "people's convention") met to discuss the 1891 draft constitution. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
In two sessions, the Second National Australasian Convention met (with representatives from all colonies except Queensland present). They agreed to adopt a constitution based on 1891 draft, and then revised and amended it later that year. Catherine Helen Spence became the first female political candidate for political office, standing for election as a representative for South Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The Convention agreed on a final draft to be put to the people. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
The decision was made to site the national capital in New South Wales, but not within 100 miles of Sydney. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Several delegates visited London to resist proposed changes to the agreed-upon constitution. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (19th century):
Australia becomes a federation. Edmund Barton becomes the 1st Prime Minister of Australia; the 7th Earl of Hopetoun becomes Governor-General. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Franchise Act guarantees women the right to vote in federal elections (by this stage, most states had already done this). However, it excludes most non-European ethnic groups, including Aboriginal people, unless already registered to vote on State roles. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The High Court of Australia is established with Samuel Griffith as the first Chief Justice. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
A site at Dalgety, New South Wales chosen for the new national capital Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Alfred Deakin returns to the position of prime minister. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australia takes control of south-eastern New Guinea Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Andrew Fisher becomes 5th Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Dorothea Mackellar publishes My Country Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The first powered aeroplane flight in Australia is made. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Andrew Fisher forms the first federal majority Labor government. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Royal Australian Navy is founded Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australia sends women to the Olympic Games for the first time Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The foundation stone for the city of Canberra is put in place Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
1913 Australian federal election: Joseph Cook elected as the 6th Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australian soldiers are sent to the First World War. This was first time Australians had fought under the Australian flag, as opposed to that of Britain's. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australian soldiers land at ANZAC Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Hotels are forced to close at 6 p.m., leading to the beginning of the "six o'clock swill" Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Second referendum on conscription is rejected. Transcontinental railway linking Adelaide to Perth is completed. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Battle of Amiens: Australian troops spearhead 8 August offensive against Hindenburg Line: the "black day of the German Army". On 12 August, Australian commander General Sir John Monash is knighted in the field of battle by King George V Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Prime Minister Billy Hughes signs Treaty of Versailles: the first signing of an international treaty by Australia. Australia obtains League of Nations mandate over German New Guinea. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The airline Qantas is founded Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Edith Cowan becomes the first woman elected to an Australian parliament Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
1922 Australian federal election: Billy Hughes reelected as prime minister. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Smith Family charity is founded in Sydney Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Construction begins on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Vegemite is first produced Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
1925 Australian federal election: Stanley Bruce reelected as prime minister. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The first Miss Australia contest is held Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The tenth parliament is formally opened in Canberra, finalising the move to the new capital. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Bert Hinkler makes the first successful flight from Britain to Australia, and Charles Kingsford Smith makes the first flight from the United States to Australia. The Shrine of Remembrance is built. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Western Australia celebrates its centenary Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
New South Wales batsman Don Bradman scores a world record first-class individual innings of 452 not out in a Sheffield Shield match against Queensland Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Phar Lap wins his only Melbourne Cup Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Sir Douglas Mawson charts 4,000 miles of Antarctic coastline and claims 42% of the icy mass for Australia Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Construction on the Sydney Harbour Bridge is completed. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Western Australia votes at a rerefendum to secede from the Commonwealth, but the vote is ignored by both the Commonwealth and British governments. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Sir Charles Kingsford Smith disappears. He was 38. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The last thylacine dies. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The radio series Dad and Dave begins. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Sydney hosts the Empire Games, the forerunner to the Commonwealth Games. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Victoria is devastated by the Black Friday bushfires. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
A team of scientists, under Howard Florey, develops penicillin Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
3 Divisions of the 2nd Australian Imperial Force join operations in the Mediterranean. After initial successes against Italy, 2nd AIF suffered defeat against the Germans in Greece, Crete, and North Africa. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Singapore falls, 15,000 Australians become Prisoners of War of the Japanese Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
![Lieutenant-General Percival and his party carry the Union flag on their way to surrender Singapore to the Japanese. Left to Right: Major Cyril Wild (carrying white flag) interpreter; Brigadier T. K. Newbigging (carrying the Union flag) Chief Administrative Officer, Malaya Command; Lieutenant-Colonel Kazushi Sugita; Brigadier K. S. Torrance, Brigadier General Staff Malaya Command; Lieutenant General Arthur Percival, General Officer Commanding, Malaya Command. [1]](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a6/Surrender_Singapore.jpg/500px-Surrender_Singapore.jpg)
Australia wins its first Oscar, with cinematographer Damien Parer honoured for Kokoda Front Line! documentary. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Cowra breakout, mass escape of Japanese prisoners of war occurs in NSW. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
the Liberal Party of Australia is established with Robert Menzies as its first leader. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Minister for Immigration Arthur Calwell introduces the major post-war immigration scheme Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Minister for External Affairs, Dr. H. V. Evatt is elected President of the United Nations General Assembly. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
All indigenous ex-servicemen and any Indigenous Australians who are eligible to vote in State Elections (NSW, VIC, SA and TAS) are given an unrestricted right to vote in federal elections. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australian troops are sent to the Korean War to assist South Korea. (to 1953) Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Voters reject a referendum to change the Constitution to allow the Menzies Government to ban the Communist Party Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Operation Hurricane: First nuclear test conducted in Australian territory by the United Kingdom off the coast of Western Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Elizabeth II and Prince Philip make a royal visit; the Soviet diplomat Vladimir Petrov defects, leading to the Petrov Affair and another split in the Labor Party Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Democratic Labor Party splits from Australian Labor Party over concerns of Communist influence in the labour movement Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Television in Australia is launched. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The song "Wild One" makes Johnny O'Keefe the first Australian rock'n'roller to reach the national charts. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Construction begins on the Sydney Opera House. It will eventually cost $102 Million. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Robert Menzies' Commonwealth Electoral Act provided that all Indigenous Australians should have the right to enrol and vote at federal elections, removing remaining restrictions applying in QLD, WA and NT. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Beatles' 1964 world tour reach Australia Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Indigenous Australians gain right to vote in state of Queensland Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Decimalisation; the Australian currency is changed to dollars and cents, with the Australian dollar replacing the Australian pound. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The ban on the employment of married women in the Commonwealth Public Service is lifted Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Ronald Ryan becomes the last person legally executed in Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
John Gorton replaces John McEwen as Prime Minister Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
French conceptual artist Christo 'wraps' Little Bay in Sydney Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
More than 200,000 people participate in the largest demonstrations in Australian history, against the Vietnam War Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Neville Bonner becomes the first Aborigine to become an Australian Member of Parliament Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Commission rules that women doing the same job as men have the right to be paid the same wage. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Sydney Opera House formally opened by Elizabeth II Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
"Advance Australia Fair" recognised as Australia's national song, but not as national anthem. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Privy Council (Appeals from the High Court) Act removes the right to appeal High Court decisions to the British Privy Council. Appeals to the Privy Council direct from State Supreme Courts remain until 1988. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Australian Capital Territory legalises homosexuality between consenting adults in private. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Granville rail disaster killed eighty-three people Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
First Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australian women win the right to maternity leave Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Baby Azaria Chamberlain disappears from a campsite at Uluru (Ayers Rock), reportedly taken by a dingo. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
A referendum is held in Tasmania to vote for whether or not the Franklin Dam should be built. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
12th Commonwealth Games held in Brisbane. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Ash Wednesday bushfires kill 71 people. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
"Advance Australia Fair" is proclaimed as Australia's official national anthem. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The government grants the freehold title of a large area of land in central Australia, including prominent landmarks Uluru and Kata Tjuta, to the Mutitjulu people, who in turn give them a 99-year lease. The last state to do so (New South Wales) abolishes capital punishment. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Australia Act removes the right of appeal from State courts to the British Privy Council, making the High Court the final court of appeal in Australia. The Act also removes all remaining rights of the UK parliament to pass law for Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Hoddle Street massacre kills 7 victims and injures 19 Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australia celebrates its bicentenary, with large celebrations and major funding for capital works projects. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Newcastle earthquake kills 13 people. ACT gains self-Government. The Kempsey bus crash and Grafton bus crash kill a total of 56 people. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Royal Australian Navy deployed in preparation for the First Gulf War. Carmen Lawrence becomes the first female premier of an Australian state. Labor wins the 1990 federal election. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Prominent heart surgeon Victor Chang is gunned down. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The High Court delivers the Mabo Decision, which rules that indigenous native title does exist. This effectively extinguishes the concept of terra nullius. New South Wales Premier Nick Greiner resigns. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
1993 Australian federal election: Keating defeats John Hewson; the Australian Greens stand candidates for the first time. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The Northern Territory legalises voluntary euthanasia, but it is overruled by the federal government when Liberal MP Kevin Andrews proposes the Euthanasia Laws Bill 1996 Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
The High Court hands down the Wik Decision, which holds that indigenous native title can survive the granting of pastoral leases. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Michael Hutchence, lead singer of INXS, is found dead in his hotel room. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Expelled Liberal MP Pauline Hanson forms the One Nation Party Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
A major strike results when Patrick Stevedores attempt to introduce non-union labour to reduce the influence of the Maritime Union of Australia Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Both houses of the federal parliament pass a Motion of Reconciliation signifying both recognition of and regret at past mistreatment of indigenous Australians. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Howard government introduces a Goods and Services Tax Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (20th century):
Australia celebrates centenary of federation. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
2002 Bali bombings, the deadliest act of terrorism in the history of Indonesia, killing 202 people (including 88 Australians). Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Australian military deployed to Iraq War to oust the Saddam Hussein regime for serial non-compliance with the 1991 Gulf War Peace Treaty. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
A bomb explodes outside the Australian embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Sydney beachside suburb of Cronulla sees a protest against the alleged bashing of a beach lifeguard, developing into an alcohol-fuelled, racially charged riot. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
The Commonwealth Games are held in Melbourne. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Australia avoids recession amidst 2008 financial crisis (to 2010). Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Actor Heath Ledger dies from an accidental prescription drug intoxication, aged 28. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Black Saturday bushfires: Massive bushfires swept across Victoria, resulting in 173 fatalities. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Julia Gillard challenged and replaced Kevin Rudd as leader of the Labor Party to become the 27th and first female Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Queensland is affected by major flooding, followed by Cyclone Yasi. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Carbon price introduced by the Gillard government. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Julia Gillard apologises to victims of forced adoption practices for removal of babies from predominantly young single mothers. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Carbon price is dropped by the Abbott government. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
22nd Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Fraser dies, aged 84. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
2016 Australian federal election: Malcolm Turnbull remains as Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
John Cameron sets off the chain of events that became the 2017 Australian parliamentary eligibility crisis. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Following two leadership spills, Scott Morrison succeeds Malcolm Turnbull as leader of the Liberal Party and is sworn in as the 30th Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
2019 Australian federal election: Scott Morrison remains as Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
The ACT becomes the first Australian region to legalise recreational cannabis. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
The AUKUS security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States is announced after negotiations. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
2022 eastern Australia floods Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
The Australian Indigenous Voice referendum fails to pass, with 60% of Australians voting "No". Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
Mary Donaldson becomes the first Australian-born queen consort of a European monarchy when she is proclaimed Queen of Denmark when her husband Frederik X ascends the throne. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):
2025 Australian federal election: Anthony Albanese remains as Prime Minister of Australia. Source — Wikipedia, "Timeline of Australian history" (21st century):