When did Australia become a Federation?

Australia became federated as the Commonwealth of Australia on New Year's Day, January 1st, 1901.

Six British Colonies (New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania), subject to the law-making of the British Parliament, united to become one country and create their own Parliament.

The ceremony was held in Sydney, New South Wales. A parade started proceedings, travelling from the Domain and making its way to Centennial Park. Both are quite beautiful areas you can still visit today.

The estimated number of people lining the route of the federation parade was 500,000, and the approximate number of witnesses to the ceremony in the park was 100,000.

The first Prime Minister was Edmund Barton, and the first Governor-General was Lord Hopetoun - both were sworn in at the ceremony. Australia remained part of the British Empire, with Queen Victoria as the official Head of State.

Australia remains part of the Commonwealth of Nations, along with such countries as New Zealand, Canada, India, Guyana, and many others. Queen Elizabeth II is Australia's current Head of State.

At the time of writing - 2020 - the Prime Minister is Scott Morrison (commonly referred to as "Scomo" - sometimes with affection and sometimes not). The Governor General is David Hurley.