The Australasian Federation League organises this convention to discuss the 1891 draft constitution. 1897 Elections for constitutional convention delegates are held. They meet twice to try and agree on a federal constitution. 22 Mar Second National Australasian Convention - First Session. Delegates 23 Apr from each colony, except Queensland, meet and adopt a draft constitution based on the 1891 draft.
Delegates revise and amend the draft constitution.
1898 Constitutional convention delegates agree on a constitution but it fails to gain the required level of support in the New South Wales referendum. The New South Wales Premier supports federation, but not the referendum. 3 - 4 Jun 'Yes' vote in referenda in Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia 'No' vote in New South Wales. The vote is 8405 short of the 80,000 required. The Premiers strike an agreement, and all states except Western Australia support the Constitution Bill.