Thursday, 9th May, 1901
Australia's First Parliament: Inauguration and Procedure
- Duration:11 mins 3 secs
- Updated: Sat, 05 Apr 2025 14:32:25 AEDT
- Version: 46
Episode Summary
House of Representatives
On May 9, 1901, the Australian House of Representatives convened in Melbourne. Election writs were read for 75 members. The Duke of Cornwall and York, on behalf of King Edward VII, declared Parliament open. Members were sworn in, including Prime Minister Edmund Barton. Frederick Holder was elected Speaker. A cablegram from the Secretary of State for the Colonies was read. A special adjournment was approved for May 21.
Senate
In Melbourne, the inaugural Australian Senate convened with a message from King Edward VII, conveyed by the Duke of Cornwall and York, expressing gratitude for colonial support and hope for the new union. Following oaths, debate ensued regarding the presidential election process, focusing on ballot procedures. Senator Richard Baker was elected President. After addresses, including a message from the Secretary of State, the Senate adjourned.