What was the composition of the first Australian Senate?
The Duke of Cornwall and York opens the first federal Parliament, 9 May 1901.
State Library of Victoria
The Duke of Cornwall and York opens the first federal Parliament, 9 May 1901.
State Library of Victoria
Description
This colour engraving shows the official opening of the of the first federal Parliament. The Duke of Cornwall and York, dressed in full military uniform, reads from a book. He and other dignitaries stand on a platform looking down on a great crowd. Judges, military personel, accademics, women and lawyers can be seen in the crowd. Flags are drapped from the mezzanine level of the Exhibition Building.
Following Federation and the 1901 election, 36 senators were elected:
- Free Trade – 17
- Protectionist – 11
- Australian Labor Party – 8