Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the first inhabitants of Australia. They have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years.
Indigenous Australians developed rich cultures, languages and spiritual traditions, with strong connections to land, sea and community.
British settlement
In 1788, the First Fleet arrived from Britain and established a penal colony at Sydney Cove. This marked the beginning of British settlement in Australia.
Over time, additional colonies were established across the continent, bringing profound changes and hardships for Indigenous peoples.
Colonial development
During the 19th century, the colonies grew through migration, agriculture and economic development. Each colony had its own government and laws.
Despite being separate, the colonies shared common interests and increasingly discussed uniting as one nation.
Federation
On 1 January 1901, the six colonies united to form the Commonwealth of Australia. This process is known as Federation.
Federation created a national government while allowing states to retain significant powers.
Australia in the modern era
Since Federation, Australia has developed into a diverse, democratic and multicultural society. Migration has played a major role in shaping the nation.
What you must know for the test
- that Indigenous Australians were the first inhabitants
- the year of British settlement (1788)
- the meaning of Federation
- the year Australia became a nation (1901)
- the role of migration in Australian history