Resource
Federation Timeline
Cut and sequence six dated Federation event cards.
Preview the student activity
Download printer-friendly student PDFCheck the preview, printing notes and licence before use.
What children do
Cut and sequence six dated Federation event cards.
Download
- Colour student PDF — 2 pages (A4 portrait).
- Printer-friendly student PDF — black outlines and white backgrounds.
- Separate answers and educator notes.
Age and preparation
Years 5–7. Allow around 20 minutes. A4 paper, pencils and scissors; optional glue. Print at actual size.
Use the activity
Model one example, then let children work alone or with a partner. Keep the key separate until they are ready to check. Open tasks include sample responses and fair assessment guidance.
Accept spoken answers, pointing or a partner scribe when writing is a barrier. For a challenge, ask learners to explain the clue behind an answer. Colour never determines a factual answer.
Scope and accuracy
The sequence is a broad overview. Colonial conventions and votes overlapped. Federation created the Commonwealth while states retained governments and powers. The activities acknowledge unequal participation and do not endorse discriminatory policies of the era.
Factual sources
Reviewed on 2 October 2026 against official Australian sources. Original wording and illustrations are used; official artwork and ballot designs are not reproduced.
