-
First official Chaplins
Fr Phillip Conolly and Fr John Therry -
First Catholic school at Parramata
-
Appointment of the First Bishop of Sydney
The appointment of Bishop William Ullathorne as the first Bishop of Sydney marked the formal organization of the diocesan structure in Australia, highlighting the growth of the Church. -
Creation of the Diocese of Melbourne
The Diocese of Melbourne was established in 1848, contributing to the growth of the Church in Victoria and reflecting the increasing number of Catholics in the region. -
Foundation of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Australia
The first Australian conference of the Society was established in Sydney on May 5, 1854. This marked the beginning of organized charitable efforts under the guidance of the Catholic Church to assist those in need. -
Foundation of the Catholic Education System
The establishment of the Catholic Education Office in various dioceses laid the foundation for a comprehensive Catholic education system in Australia, which has continued to grow. -
Founding of the Sisters of St. Joseph
Mary MacKillop, co-founder of the Sisters of St. Joseph, established this religious order focused on education and social work, particularly in rural and underserved communities. -
Opening of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney
The construction of St. Mary’s Cathedral, which was completed in 1868, became a central place of worship and a symbol of the Catholic faith in Australia. -
Establishment of the Catholic Press
The founding of several Catholic newspapers and periodicals helped to communicate Catholic teachings and foster community among Catholics across the country. -
The Catholic Encyclical of 1891 (Rerum Novarum)
Pope Leo XIII's encyclical on social issues influenced Catholic thought and advocacy in Australia, with a focus on workers’ rights and social justice, significantly affecting the Church's social teachings.