Australia's Journey to Nationhood

Federation, Democracy, and Rights Year 6 History NSW Curriculum

Before Federation: The Six Colonies

Six separate British colonies existed New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania Each had their own laws and governments Trade between colonies was difficult

Timeline: Path to Federation

Why Federation? The Big Issues

Defense - fear of invasion from other countries Trade - remove tariffs between colonies Immigration - unified 'White Australia Policy' Communication - connecting by rail and telegraph

Federation Debate Activity

Role-play: You are delegates from different colonies Discuss the pros and cons of joining together Consider: trade, defense, identity, independence Vote on whether your colony should federate

January 1, 1901: A Nation is Born

Commonwealth of Australia proclaimed Edmund Barton became first Prime Minister Melbourne was the temporary capital Six states joined under one Constitution

Democracy Then and Now

{"left":"1901: Only white men over 21 could vote\nWomen couldn't vote in federal elections\nAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people excluded","right":"Today: All citizens 18+ can vote\nSecret ballot system protects voter choice\nCompulsory voting ensures participation"}

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Rights

First peoples lived here for over 65,000 years Federation Constitution excluded Indigenous people 1967 Referendum - 90% voted YES for inclusion Recognition and reconciliation continue today

Migration and Multiculturalism

How has migration changed Australia since 1901? What does it mean to be Australian today? How do we balance unity with diversity?

Australia Today: Our Democratic Nation

Federal Parliament makes laws for all states Everyone has rights and responsibilities We celebrate our diversity while staying united Democracy means everyone has a voice