They wanted the colonial governments to be united by a national government to form a single nation. The idea of creating a single national parliament was spurred on by issues such as immigration, defence, and a growing sense of national identity. During the 1890s a number of conventions were held to work out the details of the new system of government. In 1901 the six separate colonies were finally federated to form the Commonwealth of Australia. About Parliament Under the Australian Constitution, the Commonwealth Parliament has the power to make laws for all Australians.
Parliament has four main functions.
The Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia has two Houses. The Upper House is called the Senate. The Lower House is the House of Representatives. Currently the House of Representatives has 148 Members. Members are elected for a term of up to three years.