Australia's History

**Early European settlement** European settlement started when the first 11 convict ships — known as the **'First Fleet'** — arrived from Great Britain on **26 January 1788**. At this time, British jails could not hold the large number of people imprisoned for crimes. The British Government decided to transport convicts to the new colony of New South Wales. The first **Governor of New South Wales was Captain Arthur Phillip**. The colony survived, and as more convicts and free settlers arrived, it grew. Early free settlers came from Great Britain and Ireland. This **British and Irish heritage** has had a major influence on Australia's history, culture and politics. **The gold rush** In **1851**, a gold rush began when gold was discovered in New South Wales and Victoria. People from around the world came to make their fortunes. **Chinese people** arriving at this time were the first large group of migrants not from Europe. In ten years, Australia's population more than doubled. **Federation** In **1901**, the separate colonies were united into a federation of states called the **Commonwealth of Australia**. Our national democratic institutions — including our national parliament, government and the **High Court** — were established under the new **Australian Constitution**. In 1901, Australia's population was about **four million**. This did not include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples — it was not until after a **Referendum in 1967** that they were included in official population estimates. **Post-World War II** After World War II, millions of Europeans left their homelands. Large numbers came to Australia to build a new life. In recent years, migration and refugee programs have brought people from all over the world. **Australia today** People from more than **200 countries** have made Australia their home. Australia's **national language is English** — it is part of our national identity and migrants are encouraged to learn and use English. More than **100 distinct Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages** are also valued.