Victoria (Australia)

Victoria is a state located in the south-eastern corner of Australia. It is the smallest mainland state in area, but the most densely populated and urbanised. Victoria began as farming community in the 1800s, until the discovery of gold transformed it into a leading industrial and commercial centre. In 2005, Victoria's population reached 5,012,700 - making it the second most populous Australian state, after New South Wales. Melbourne is Victoria's capital and largest city, with more than 70 per cent of all Victorians living there.

History

After the founding of the colony of New South Wales in 1788, the continent was divided into an eastern half - named New South Wales, and a western half, named New Holland, but under the administration of the colonial government in Sydney. Victoria's first settlement was at Portland, on the west coast of what is now Victoria, Melbourne was founded in 1835 by John Batman.

Related Topics:
New South Wales - 1788 - New Holland - Sydney - Melbourne - John Batman

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In 1851 gold was discovered at Ballarat, and subsequently at Bendigo. Later discoveries occurred at many sites across Victoria. This triggered one of the largest gold rushes the world has ever seen. Victoria grew rapidly in both population and economic power. The colony was granted independence from New South Wales in the same year.

Related Topics:
1851 - Gold - Ballarat - Bendigo - Largest gold rushes

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In 1901 Victoria became a state in the Commonwealth of Australia. Melbourne was the capital of Australia while Canberra was under construction.

Related Topics:
1901 - Commonwealth of Australia - Canberra

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~