Learning Outcomes
- Outline the history of NSW Parliament
- Outline the development of democracy in New South Wales
- Identify events leading to the establishment of democratic principles in Australia’s system of government.
Syllabus Links
THE AUSTRALIAN COLONIES
How did an Australian colony develop over time and why?
What were the significant events and who were the significant people that shaped Australian colonies?
AUSTRALIA AS A NATION
Key figures and events that led to Australia’s Federation, including British and American influences on Australia’s system of law and government (ACHHK113).
- Sequence key figures and events and explain their significance in the development of Australian democracy
- Outline local, state, and federal government structures and responsibilities.
The History of Parliament
Explore the remarkable transformation of a hospital built on rum into New South Wales’ seat of democracy.
This video captures over two centuries of democratic evolution, exploring the significant people and events that turned a convict hospital into a modern State Parliament and led to the creation of Australia’s democracy.
Key Takeaways
- Rum Hospital to Parliament: The short film details how the Rum Hospital, built through a rum trade agreement by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1811, evolved into the New South Wales Parliament.
- Early Governance and the establishment of the Legislative Council: In 1824, a Legislative Council was established to assist the Governor, marking the first check on the Governor’s autocratic power. By 1829, this council occupied part of the Rum Hospital.
- Steps Toward Representative Government: The 1842 Constitution Act increased the Legislative Council’s membership and introduced elections, progressing toward self-governance and responsible government in New South Wales.
- Parliamentary Developments and Inclusivity: Key milestones include the establishment of a bicameral parliament in 1855, the extension of voting rights to all males over 21 in 1858, women’s suffrage in 1902, and voting rights for Aboriginal people by 1962, culminating in a fully elected Legislative Council by 1981.
