Federation
3 min · 12 practice questions
Before 1901, Australia was made up of six separate self-governing British colonies, each with its own constitution and its own laws on matters such as defence, immigration, postage, trade and transport. On 1 January 1901 the colonies were united into a federation of states called the Commonwealth of Australia.
What Our Common Bond says
- Before 1901, Australia was six separate self-governing British colonies.
- Each colony had its own constitution.
- Each colony had its own laws on defence, immigration, postage, trade and transport.
- On 1 January 1901, the colonies were united into a federation of states called the Commonwealth of Australia.
Common mistakes
- Thinking Australia had one national government before 1901 — the colonies governed themselves separately.
- Believing all colonies shared one constitution before Federation — each had its own.
- Confusing 1 January 1901 (Federation) with 26 January (Australia Day / the First Fleet).
Test yourself
One question at a time: pick an answer, then check it. Everything here comes from Our Common Bond, Part 3, page 27 (official booklet ↗).
Question 1 of 12
Checked against Our Common Bond (0.3.1). Last reviewed September 2026. How questions are checked