Colony of New South Wales

Published: July 15, 2026 · Updated: July 15, 2026

1788–1901

The first British colony, founded in 1788, which at first covered most of eastern Australia and gave rise to the later colonies.

Colony of New South Wales — Author: Thomas Watling Public domain Source

What it was

New South Wales was the British penal colony established in 1788 with the arrival of the First Fleet, governed by a governor holding wide powers.

Role

Its territory at first stretched over most of the east, and from it Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland, and others were carved off in turn. Wool and the gold rushes built its economy.

Fate

Self-government developed in the later 19th century, and in 1901 it joined the other five colonies in Federation to become a state of Australia.

Periods

Colonial era 1788–1850
Gold rush era 1851–1900

Regions

Australia