Key Concepts

• Separate colonies to one nation - Before 1901, each colony had its own parliament, laws, and identity. Federation brought them together under a single national government.

• The Australian Constitution - Federation established a written Constitution that sets out how government works, defines powers, and protects key democratic principles.

• Division of powers - Law‑making powers were divided between the Commonwealth and the states, with some areas shared and others exclusive to the federal level.

• Reasons for Federation - Key motivations included defence, trade and economic cooperation, immigration control, improved communication, and a growing sense of national identity.

• The Federation movement - Conventions, debates, and referendums throughout the 1890s shaped the final Constitution and ensured public approval.

• The role of the British Parliament - Although Australians voted for Federation, the Constitution still required approval from the UK Parliament, reflecting Australia’s colonial status at the time.

• Creation of national institutions - Federation established the High Court, the federal Parliament, and the office of the Governor‑General.

• Continuity and change - While Federation unified the colonies, states retained significant powers, and debates about federal–state balance continue today.