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1st January 1901
Edmund Barton is appointed as the first prime minister of Australia, as head of the caretaker government of the new federation. -
First Federal Elections
75 people were voted into the house of representatives, and 36 elected to the Senate, and Barton held on to power. -
The Opening Of Parliament
Parliament was opened in Melbourne's Exhibition Building for a day and was followed by the first sitting of parliament. -
Australian Flag Chosen
After a public competition, Ivor William Evans's design for a flag was chosen and was unfurled across the Exhibition Building. -
The Boer War Ends
The Boer War which commenced in 1899 ends following the death of around 600 Australians. -
Women won the right to vote
The Commonwealth Franchise act of 1902 was passed. -
The Empire Telegraph Cable
The Empire submarine telegraph cable from Canada to Queensland was opened. -
Second Governer-General
Lord Tennyson, a former South Australian Governor, was chosen to replace the old Governor-general, Lord Hopetoun. -
23 September 1903
Edmund Barton resigned to become a judge of the High Court and was replaced by Alfred Deakin.