The Unique History of South Australia

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A Distinctive Colony

South Australia stands out as a remarkable colony within the British Empire. Unlike its contemporaries on Australia’s eastern coast, it was established without the controversial use of convict labour. This foundational principle has been a subject of ongoing debate among historians, particularly concerning its long-term cultural and societal impacts. However, the absence of a “convict stain” contributes significantly to the distinct identity of South Australians today.

Foundational Conflicts

Founded through a partnership between the British Government, represented by the Governor, and the South Australian Colonisation Commission, the division of responsibilities between these authorities was frequently unclear. This lack of clarity led to regular tensions during the colony’s formative years. Compounding these issues, some Commission members established the South Australian Company in 1835, a joint-stock enterprise aimed at securing funds through land sales. This initiative successfully convinced the British Government of the colony’s economic viability and became its financial backbone, constructing essential infrastructure and offering banking services. The first three ships to sail from Britain to South Australia—the John Pirie, Duke of York, and Cygnet—were either owned or chartered by this influential company in 1836.

A Planned Settlement

Known as a “planned settlement” or a “social laboratory,” South Australia emerged from the mounting criticism of colonial methods in the 1820s and 1830s. Pioneering liberal thinkers, particularly Edward Gibbon Wakefield, catalyzed this movement. While imprisoned in Newgate Prison in 1829, Wakefield penned A Letter from Sydney, outlining the principles of “systematic colonisation” which would form the bedrock of South Australia.

Key Principles of Systematic Colonisation

Wakefield’s ideas emphasized the importance of free settlement and the sale—not the granting—of land. By setting land prices artificially high, he proposed to discourage rapid acquisition by labourers, thereby ensuring a stable workforce and generating revenue for assisted migration programs. This approach favored the recruitment of young, able-bodied families, which was crucial for maintaining a balanced gender ratio and supporting the colony’s growth.

The South Australian Association

Established in December 1833, the South Australian Association was instrumental in the colony’s formation. Its members included numerous dissenting religious sects and individuals influenced by radical and utilitarian philosophies, such as Robert Gouger and Robert Torrens, who closely aligned with Wakefield’s vision. Many of these early advocates later became members of the Board of the Colonisation Commission.

Enduring Influence of Dissenters

The dissenters—Protestants who dissociated from the Church of England—played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and political culture of South Australia. Their legacy is reflected in the colony’s steadfast commitment to religious freedom and vigorous political discourse, traits that continue to define the region today.