-
1889
Sir Henry Parkes urges the colonies to federate -
1890
The Australasian Federation Conference recommends a national convention be held to draft a constitution of the Commonwealth of Australia. -
1891
The first National Australasian convention is held in Sydney and drafts a constitution. -
1891-94
Economics depression means the colonial parliments lose intrest in federation. -
1893
A peolpes conference in Corowa, New Soth Wales, urges the colonial parliments to hold a new convention to decide on a draft constitution. -
1895
A special premier's conference agrees to hold a new federation convention. -
1896
A second people's conference in Bathurst, New South Wales, renews calls for another federation convention. -
1897-98
The second National Australasian Convention meets in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne, and agrees to the constitution. -
1899
In January the premiers hold a secret meeting and agree to several changes to the constitution. -
1900
In March a delegation travels to London to present the constitution to the British Parliament.
On 5 July the British Parliament passes the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act.
On 9 July Queen Victoria signs the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act.
On 31 July Western Australia holds a referendum at which an overwhelming majority of voters approve the Constitution. -
1901
Australia becomes one nation.