Tuesday, 21st May, 1901
Australia's First Parliament: Debates on Nationhood and Policy
- Duration:16 mins
- Updated: Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:15:09 AEDT
- Version: 28
Episode Summary
House of Representatives
The inaugural Australian Parliament convened, administering oaths and adopting revised standing orders. Member accommodation was allocated, and congratulations were received from British Columbia. The Address in Reply to the Governor-General's speech was debated, with Groom advocating for a High Court, interstate commission, and restricted immigration. Crouch seconded, praising the Ministry's election methods. Reid critiqued the Ministry's composition and advocated for a revenue tariff. Barton defended government policies, addressing interjections. The session adjourned after debate, promising future discussion of standing orders.
Senate
The Senate convened, addressing procedural matters and proposed agreements. Senators debated parliamentary paper accessibility, roll signing, and prioritizing the Address in Reply. Senator Fraser moved for its adoption, advocating for defense priorities, cautioning against foreign shipping, and addressing revenue needs. Discussions encompassed industrial policies, immigration favoring a "white Australia," old-age pensions, and criticisms of the Premier's speech. Ultimately, the Senate adjourned after extensive debate on revenue, protection, industrial policy, and immigration.