Legislation

Discover how laws have been developed, discussed and implemented, directly affecting people and communities in Australia.

Topics

A topic is a collection of records with interpretation and inquiry questions. Each topic is aligned to the Australian Curriculum and focuses on an aspect of Australian history.

Topic

'Populate or perish': Australia's postwar migration program

By the end of World War II, Australia was suffering from shortages in the work force. Its small population and isolation increased its sense of vulnerability.
Topic

Antarctica and imperialism

During the 1920s Australia and Britain became aware that several countries, including Norway and France, were intending to stake territorial claims in Antarctica.
Topic

First World War: War Precautions Act 1914

After the outbreak of the First World War, the federal parliament, following the lead of Britain, passed the War Precautions Act 1914.
Topic

Protecting the Antarctic environment

From the time humans landed in Antarctica, its flora and fauna have been studied and exploited for food and resources.
Topic

Referendums and changing Australia’s constitution

The Australian people vote on proposed changes to the constitution at a referendum.
Topic

The 1967 referendum

In a referendum held on 27 May 1967, Australians voted to remove references in the Australian Constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Topic

The Immigration Restriction Act and the White Australia policy

After Federation, the first parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia passed a package of legislation that would establish its racial boundaries as a nation.

Records

Each record focuses on a single item from the National Archives' collection. Some records contain extra information to help you interpret them.

Legislation

Topics

'Populate or perish': Australia's postwar migration program

Antarctica and imperialism

First World War: War Precautions Act 1914

Protecting the Antarctic environment

Referendums and changing Australia’s constitution

The 1967 referendum

The Immigration Restriction Act and the White Australia policy

Records

'Imposter' Chinese-Australian tricks customs officers

Acceptance of European refugees in Australia – statement from John McEwen

Need help with your research?