This collection of four fact sheets covers topics pertaining to our nations Federation. Topics include 'Referendums', 'The First Commonwealth Parliament' and 'Voting in the Federal Election 1903'. Each of the fact sheets comes with accompanying activity sheet.

Federation Factsheets

The Referendums
1898-1900

A referendum is a vote on a political question referred by a government to the people. Electors vote by writing 'yes' or 'no' in the box opposite each question.

The First Commonwealth Parliament 1901

Once the Australian Constitution had been accepted by voters in the Australian colonies and enacted as law by British Parliament, the process of putting the new system of federal government into practice began.

Voting in the Federal Election 1903

The second federal election, held on 16 December 1903, was the first to take place according to uniform voting rights and electoral procedures in all States.

Further Reading

A collection of books, articles, teacher resources and videos.


Professional Learning

Develop practical skills in teaching electoral education as part of Australian Curriculum in Civics and Citizenship with the AEC's professional learning suite. You can work online or attend our face to face workshops.

The AEC's one hour online professional learning tool aims to equip you with the skills and knowledge to run an election in your classroom, which is a great way to help students understand the decision making process of an election.

This course;

  • Covers Civics & Citizenship content from the Humanities and Social Sciences curriculum
  • Aligns with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers
  • Provides 1 hour of professional learning with an official certificate after completion.

Useful links