Nationhood
Australia's first overseas territory
13 June 1933
Australia takes control of land in Antarctica.
Originally called Victoria Land and Enderby Land, the 6 million square kilometres of Antarctica that is now the Australian Antarctic Territory was claimed by Great Britain in 1841. In 1933 Britain transferred the entire area to Australia. The Antarctic Territory became Australia’s first overseas territory.
Australia has had a connection to Antarctica since before Federation; explorers mapped the continent and scientists undertook research. As well as continuing this work, control of part of the vast continent gave support to Australia’s claim to be a power in the southern hemisphere and upheld our growing sense of autonomy as a ‘new’ country.
Since signing the Antarctic Treaty in 1961, Australia has tried to influence activities in the Australian Antarctic Territory and surrounding region – including whaling and mining – to ensure the environment is protected.
Segment of Antarctica entitled 'Australian Antarctic Territory'
National Archives of Australia, AA1964/7
Segment of Antarctica entitled 'Australian Antarctic Territory'
National Archives of Australia, AA1964/7
Description
This map highlights Australia's Territory in Antarctica. The Antarctic Territory became Australia’s first overseas territory when it was transferred from Britain in 1933.
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