Progress towards Federation is stalled by the colonies' concerns about their own status within a Federation. Popular support for Federation leads to the formation of the Australasian Federation League. 1896 Enabling Acts are passed in SA, NSW, Tas. and Vic. These prepare the way for the popular election of delegates to a national convention to draft a constitution. Delegates meet in 1897 in Adelaide and then in Sydney before they agree on a federal constitution to be put to the colonies in referendums.
Delegates agree to revise and amend the draft constitution.
Referendums are held. Yes votes in favour of adopting the new federal constitution. NSW fails to attract the minimum number of Yes votes and the Bill is not carried. Yes votes carried in referendums in NSW, Vic, SA, Tas and Qld. 1900 Australian delegates in London negotiate the passage of the Federal Constitution Bill through the British Parliament and then witness Queen Victoria signing the documents and granting Royal Assent.