The Development Of Australian Democracy Flashcards
Describe the autocratic power of the first governors of the Australian colonies.
Governors could give land grants to anyone, was answerable only to the colonial office, controlled all government stores, ordered assignments, punishments and freedoms of convicts, determined the amount of food rations, appointed officials, and imposed taxes.
Why did the British government never overrule any of the governor’s decisions?
Because of slow communications between Britain and Australia.
Why were the colonies considered incapable of self government?
They were penal colonies.
When was the first fully responsible government established in New South Wales?
1856.
Why was Australia called “a laboratory for democracy”?
The introduction of the secret ballot, the removal of property rules for voting, annual elections, pay for parliamentarians and the achievement of full male suffrage.
What were the aims of the first women’s rights groups, and why did they shift to suffrage?
To end sexual abuse, prostitution and drinking alcohol. They changed to suffrage because they realised that to achieve their goals, women would need to vote.
How did women campaign for their right to vote?
Leaflets, rallies, debates, petitions, etc.
Why was it so difficult for supporters of federation to convince the colonies to unite?
The colonies, especially New South Wales and Victoria, were very competitive, and the smaller colonies didn’t like the larger colonies.
What were some reasons against federation?
Protectionism- in a united nation, small local businesses wouldn’t be able to compete with large, nationwide businesses.
Loss of colonial power- smaller colonies were afraid that the larger colonies would put their own interests first, and the larger colonies thought it would be unfair to spend taxes being spent on the smaller colonies.
Distances- the distances between colonies raised questions as to where the federal parliament would be located.
The labour movement- trade unionists believed it would be easier to improve working conditions within their own colonies rather than at a national scale.
Cheap labour- sugar plant owners feared that a federal parliament would introduce laws restricting the immigration of cheap, non-European workers.
Economic concerns- politicians believed there were more important concerns that federation.
What were some reasons for federation?
Nationalism- the belief that people of the same religion, race, ethnicity, etc. should form their own nation.
Immigration restriction- most people didn’t want any black or Asian people coming to Australia, and this was one of the things that was thought to happen if Australian colonies United.
Security and defence- the defence force would be stronger if the colonies United, which was important to most people, as French and German forces were expanding in South-East Asia.
Free trade- free trade between the colonies would mean the removal of tariffs, resulting in lower prices for consumers.
Improved communications- all capital cities were connected by telegraphs, and allowed for political links to be made.
Need for a single rail network- if all the colonies were linked by a rail, it would make transport of people and goods less time consuming and costly.
Support of Britain- Britain wanted to loosen the reigns on its colonies.
What was the aims of the federation leagues?
To promote federation.
Which two states didn’t want to join the federation at first?
Western Australia and Queensland.
How was it ensured that the smaller states were well represented in the senate?
Everyone had an equal number of representatives.
When was the first federation referendum held? Was it successful?
- No, as there were not enough yes votes from NSW. Some changes were made to the draft constitution, and then the referendum was re-held.
When was the second federation referendum held? Was it successful?
- It was successful.
