Against Federation

Question 1

Powerful States

Answer 1

The reason why states were against is because smaller colonies were fearful fear that federation would be dominated by colonies (NSW and Vic) and there was a concern that some states would be more powerful than others

Question 2

Ties with England

Answer 2

Many were unwilling to cut ties with England, fearing that Federation would cut them off entirely from “the mother Country”. Over 90% of people involved in the federation debate were British and not motivated to federate.

Question 3

Against Unions

Answer 3

The Labour Movement pushes for better wages in colonies. Unionist believed they had better chance of achieving gains for workers in own colony.

Question 4

Qld Cane Farmers

Answer 4

QLD cane Farmers Federation aimed to keep Australia white. QLD cane farmers employed Pacific Islanders for cheaper pay. Federation would end cheap labour.
Sugar can plantation owners, too, saw advantages in being able to sell their products in the southern colonies without intercolonial tariffs.

Meaning of tariffs: a tax or duty to be paid on a particular class of imports or exports