Popular support for federation leads to the formation of the Australasian Federation Leagues, and its people who continue the push for federation. 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. The Peoples Federal Convention in Bathurst spurs popular interest in electing delegates to the national convention. Delegates meet in Adelaide and then in Sydney before they agree on a federal constitution to be put to the people of the colonies in referenda.
Delegates agree to revise and amend the draft constitution.
The Bill would be lodged for enactment by the British Parliament, if supported by the people in referenda. 1898 Referenda 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 referenda in NSW, Vic, SA, Tas and Qld.