This research guide describes the archival records of the first 6 prime ministers of Australia, who governed the nation from its birth in 1901 until 1915.
On 1 January 1901 the Australian nation came into existence in a flourish of confidence and optimism.
More than 250,000 people flocked to Centennial Park in Sydney to hear the formal proclamation of the Australian Federation by the first Governor-General, Lord Hopetoun.
The years 1901 to 1915 were crucial in the development of Australia.
Our first 6 prime ministers were Edmund Barton, Alfred Deakin, John Christian Watson, George Reid, Andrew Fisher and Joseph Cook. Records of their wives are also listed.