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La Perouse enters Botany Bay
La Perouse enters Botany Bay a his chaplain, Abbe Mones, celebrates the first
Mass within Australian territory -
First Irish convicts transported to Botany Bay
Many of the Irish convicts were Catholic, and they brought their faith with them to a land where the Church of England (Anglican Church) was the official religion of the British colonies. -
First Official Catholic Mass
Father James Dixon, a convict priest, is granted permission to celebrate Australia's first official Catholic Mass. -
First Official Catholic Chaplains
Fathers John Joseph Therry and Philip Connolly arrived in New South Wales as the first authorized Catholic priests, beginning organized Catholic ministry in Australia. -
Arrival of the Sisters of Charity
The first Catholic religious sisters, the Sisters of Charity, arrive in Australia, establishing Catholic education and healthcare. -
Establishment of the First Catholic Diocese
The Catholic Diocese of Sydney is established, with Bishop John Bede Polding appointed as Australia’s first Catholic bishop. -
Foundation of St. Vincent's Hospital
Founded by the Sisters of Charity, St. Vincent’s became one of Australia’s first Catholic hospitals, expanding the Church’s role in healthcare -
Introduction of Free, Secular Education
Australian colonies implement secular education policies, prompting the Catholic Church to establish its own network of schools to maintain Catholic education. -
Formation of the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference
The Australian bishops meet at the first national council, organizing a unified approach to addressing issues facing the Church. -
Conscription Debate
The Catholic Church, led by figures like Archbishop Daniel Mannix, opposed conscription during World War I, leading to tensions with the government. -
First Australian-born Archbishop of Sydney
Michael Kelly becomes the first Australian-born Archbishop of Sydney, symbolizing a maturing of the Australian Catholic Church -
Labor Party Split
Tensions over communism and Catholic influence in politics lead to the split in the Australian Labor Party, forming the Democratic Labor Party, with strong Catholic backing. -
Launch of the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Social Justice Statement
Focusing on social issues and advocating for the marginalised. -
Bishop Thomas Francis O’Kelly becomes a leading advocate for social justice within the Church.
Bishop O'Kelly’s work inspired many Catholics to take action on social issues and highlighted the Church’s role in supporting the common good. -
Bishop Geoffrey Robinson is appointed
He later became a key figure in addressing child protection and reform within the Church. -
establishment of the National Catholic Education Commission
This enhanced support for Catholic schools across Australia. -
Hosting of World Youth Day in Sydney
This was led by Cardinal George Pell, emphasising the Church’s commitment to youth and global community. -
Barry Hickey promotes dialogue between different faiths
Barry Hickey promotes dialogue between different faiths, reflecting a broader ecumenical approach. -
Cardinal George Pell is appointed to the Vatican’s Secretariat for the Economy
Cardinal George Pell is appointed to the Vatican’s Secretariat for the Economy, marking a significant Australian presence in the global Church.