Learning Outcomes
- HS3-HIS-01: Examines and describes the development of Australian colonies and Australia as a nation, using sources as evidence
- HS3-DEM-01: Describes the origins and features of Australia's democratic system of government and laws
Syllabus Links
K–6 Human Society and its Environment K–6 Syllabus (2024, implementation 2027)
Topic: Stage 3 – Historical sources present perspectives on the past
Focus: Sources show perspectives on how people established colonies in Australia; People have developed Australia as a nation
STAGE 3 - 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.
