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The British decided to colonise Australia for several reasons:
1. To expand the British empire, and prevent the French from gaining a foothold in the Australian continent or in that part of the Pacific.
2. To solve the problem of Britain's overcrowded prisons (a consequence of the Industrial Revolution) by establishing a new penal colony in a land which showed promise for eventually becoming self-supporting. Britain had been sending their excess prisoners to North America, but the American War of Independence put a stop to the practice. After James Cook's successful voyage which involved charting the eastern coast of Australia, New South Wales was seen as a viable proposition for a convict colony. In particular, it was endorsed by Sir Joseph Banks, the influential botanist who travelled with Cook.
3. Australia could provide commercial and political gains to Britain.
4. Due to war, Britain needed to find an alternative supply of Flax and timber as her Baltic supply was under threat. It was believed that nearby Norfolk Island would provide this.
5. Britain needed a port in the East to promote trade with China and to extend its naval and commercial power.
The first permanent settlers arrived in Australia with the First Fleet on 26 January 1788 to set up the new penal colony.
What else can I help you with?
What did the British empire exchange kangaroos for in Australia?
The British Empire did not exchange kangaroos for anything in Australia.
Why Australia joined the British Empire?
Australia did not 'join' the British Empire, the British was the first westerners who set foot on Australia. They stuck the Union Jack down, and claimed Australia as theirs.
Australia was once part of the empire.?
The British Empire
Which empire once controlled America India and Australia?
The British Empire once controlled North America, India and Australia. Many other nations were also part of the British Empire.
Does Australia belong in the English Empire?
The British Empire - yes
What were the main reasons Australia decided to help Britain in World War 1?
Because Australia was a part of the British Empire. Because Australia was a part of the British Empire
Where did the british empire control an entire continent?
north America The British Empire controlled an entire continent in Australia. The British Empire was the largest empire in history.
What did the british empire give to Australia?
money
Australia was once part of the?
British Empire
What is the British empire today?
The British Empire no longer exists. However, there are around 50 countries who used to be part of the British Empire but are now independent and choose to remain part of the Commonwealth of Nations. Those countries include Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and many Caribbean countries.
Australia and New Zealand got their independence from?
The British Empire.
What did Britain trade with Australia during the british empire?
Sheep
