Who was the first prime minister?

Australia's first Prime Minister was Sir Edmund Barton. He served as Prime Minister from 1 January 1901 to 24 September 1903. He was appointed Prime Minister by Governor-General Lord Hopetoun, not elected leader by the party or coalition of parties with the majority of support in the House of Representatives. After resigning from the House of Representatives, Sir Edmund Barton was one of the first judges of the High Court of Australia.

Photo portrait of Edmund Barton.

Sir Edmund Barton

NAA: A1200, L13582B

Sir Edmund Barton

Photo portrait of Edmund Barton.

NAA: A1200, L13582B

Description

Australia's first Prime Minister, Sir Edmund Barton. He was Prime Minister from 1901 to 1903.