New South Wales voters approve federation

Background. The 1898 referendums saw majority votes in four colonies, but New South Wales failed to meet the required 80,000 voter threshold. This failure stalled the process, as other colonies were unwilling to proceed without New South Wales' support. Colonial premiers met in early 1899 to agree on amendments, making the constitution more acceptable to New South Wales, setting the stage for the 1899 referendums.

Amendments. To secure New South Wales' approval, colonial premiers agreed to specific amendments in early 1899. These changes addressed concerns regarding the potential requirement for larger colonies to subsidize struggling economies, such as Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia. The revised constitution was then put to a vote in June 1899, with New South Wales voters approving the changes.

Outcome. The successful referendum in New South Wales allowed the bill to be sent to Britain for enactment. Although Western Australia voted later, the acceptance by the other colonies facilitated the passage of the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act 1900. This act received Royal Assent in July 1900, leading to the proclamation of the Commonwealth in January 1901.