Who was the first prime minister?

Australia's first Prime Minister was the Right Honourable Sir Edmund Barton. He served as Prime Minister from 1 January 1901 to 24 September 1903. He was appointed Prime Minister by Governor-General Lord Hopetoun, not elected leader by the party or coalition of parties with the majority of support in the House of Representatives. After resigning from the House of Representatives, Sir Edmund Barton was one of the first judges of the High Court of Australia.

Black and white portrait of middle aged man with grey curly hair.

Sir Edmund Barton.

NAA: A1200, L13582B

Sir Edmund Barton.

Black and white portrait of middle aged man with grey curly hair.

NAA: A1200, L13582B

Description

Australia's first Prime Minister, Sir Edmund Barton.