Australia: History

1770 Captain James Cook explores the east coast and claims it for Great Britain, naming it New South Wales.

1851

Gold is discovered at several locations and the population increases three-fold over the next decade.

1901

The six states in Australia unify, becoming The Commonwealth of Australia. An anti-immigration law is passed that only allows whites to move to the country.

1929 The Great Depression hits Australia hard, causing high levels of unemployment and decreased demand abroad for Australian exports.

1942 Australia passes the Statute of Westminster Adoption Act which formally establishes the country’s complete independence, although this had informally been the case for years.

1948 The government begins programs to encourage immigration from Europe. This effort brings in over two million people during the next 3 decades.

1975 Australia introduces new immigration laws, restricting the number of unskilled workers allowed into the country.

2006

Australia and East Timor sign an agreement that will divide revenues from oil and gas reserves that are found in the Timor Sea.

2006

Economic growth forecasts are decreased after the country is hit with its worst drought in a century. Farming output drops significantly.

2014

Japan and Australia agree to a trade deal that will lower tariffs between the two nations.