Reasons against Federation

Question 1

British Tradition

Answer 1

Over 90% of people involved in the Federation debate were British and not motivated to federate. They wanted Australia to remain close to Britain.

Question 2

Fear of domination

Answer 2

Smaller colonies were fearful that Federation would be dominated by the larger colonies, such as NSW and Victoria

Question 3

The Labour Movement

Answer 3

• This was the push for better wages in colonies.
• Unionists believed they had a better chance of achieving gains for workers in their own colonies, and that uniting would slow this progress.

Question 4

Queensland Cane Farmers

Answer 4

• Federation aimed to keep Australia white.
• QLD cane farmers employed Pacific Islanders for cheaper pay.
• They feared that Federation would end cheap labour.

Question 5

Other issues:

Answer 5

• In the 1890s the country was hit with a major economic depression.
• Confrontations took place between employers
  and workers, and demands for better social conditions (education and health services particularly) grew.