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Our Constitution

The first elections under the new Constitution were held in November and December 1890.  John Forrest formed a Cabinet and became the first Premier.  Stephen Henry Parker, who had campaigned for self-government, was Leader of the Opposition.

The first bicameral Parliament of Western Australia. Members of the first Legislative Assembly, elected 1890.

Many former members of the old Legislative Council were elected to the new Parliament unopposed.

By 1895, further reform had led to a fully elected Legislative Council.

"I had no opposition.  I was supported by every elector in my constituency.  Every member who sits on the joint ministerial bench can say the same thing.  They were all elected without opposition!"

	Government Expansion, 1895 By 1895, the Government buildings on St Georges Terrace had been increased in size to accomodate a growing public service.
The Western Australian Cabinet The Forrest Ministry at the turn of the century.

Plans of the early Legislative Assembly Building in Hay Street. The Chamber had been used by the Legislative Council from 1870 - 1890.