What was it like before and after federation Australia?

Answer 1

Before federation, each colony in Australia had its own laws. It issued its own postage stamps, had its own army and paid and collected the duties on goods that passed over its borders. There were trade restrictions between the states, and this became one of the main arguments in favour of Federation. From state to state there were even different rail gauges (different widths of metal track that the wheels ran along on). Passengers travelling interstate simply had to change trains at the border. This situation did not change immediately after Federation, as it was 80 years before this was changed, but it was one of the grand plans of Federation.

Answer 2

Immediately speaking not much changed. The Australian flag we fly today was flown then over 110 years ago, but almost everyone waved the British flag even up until the late 50s. Even then very few people were 'patriotic' or 'nationalistic' of Australia as most considered themselves to be British subjects at the time.

The Australian identity REALLY began to emerge after WW1. This was because most 'aussies' who had fought in the war were treated very badly by the British commanders and were used as cannon fodder. This in turn began to erase any sense of being British and to yearn for being a new nationality 'Australian'.

Back then federation was a huge party at the time, but it was not a celebration of independence. Today however, most aussies would view the event as the birth of the nation.

Answer 3

Before the federation there were 6 self governing colonies. After federation, there were six states and we became Australia, not individual colonies.