-
1606
The dutch sailed to Australia . -
1770
Caption James Cook sailed around Australia. -
1787
British ships called the "First Fleet " left England with convicts to establish a prison colony . -
1788
British prisoners settled in Australia. -
1788 - 1832
New South Wales was officially a penal ( prison) colony consisting mainly of convicts , marines ( guards) . -
1833-1850's
It was the destination for the hardest of convicted British and Irish criminals. -
1861
Government officials created boundaries for the colonies that are still in place today. -
1886
Australia act -- All legal ties with the British Empire were served -
1900's
separation was an official government policy which lasted for many decades . -
1901
The Commonwealth of Australia was estalished . -
1927
Melbourne served as the national capital until Canberra was completed in 1827 -
1967
Federal government beganto pass legislation to help the Aborigines -
1999
55% of voters rejected the idea of becoming an independent republic