On the 1st January 1901 the six Australian colonies united as one to become a nation, the commonwealth of Australia. But this federation didn't come about overnight, it happened from over 50 year of discussions by everyone in Australia. But have anyone thought why this federation took so long to happen? Maybe it was because of the considerations of the benefits of federation, not just for the Australian people, but also for each and every colony. What each and every colony were to benefit from federation. Some obvious points are; sence of nationalism, united defence, free trade, immigration, united law and communication. .
Firstly, nationalism was probably the most important aspect of Australia becoming a federation. During the 2nd generation of the Englishmen in Australia, all Australians felt a sence of nationalism. They wanted to be an Australian, source 1, shows an artist depicting Australian outback, unlike any English painting before. Quote "we have learnt our home is Australia" given by the assessment task, also depicts Australia needing to be a separate nation. From all this we can see that a sence of nationalism would definitely benefit all the colonies (All of Australia).
Secondly a united defence is also a major issue; it was of great importance especially for Queensland who was closest to the enemies. After the Boer war the lands such as Germany were closing into Australian seas and so all Australians felt a natural threat. This quote made by Sir Henry Parkes "If Australia could have spoken with one voice in 1883, New Guinea would have belonged to Australia" this speech proved how much it was needed for all the colonies to have a united defence. It"ll give Australia power. Upper coastal colonies (Queensland) would highly benefit.
Thirdly free trade is a benefit for all colonies, but Victoria was more in need of it. Victoria suffered the 1889 depression quite badly and obtained many financial difficulties.
