Migrants from many parts of Europe and Asia, including Poland, India, Iran, Egypt and Turkey continue to arrive as labourers. Large scale Irish immigration continues.
First ‘Afghans’ come to South Australia to handle camels on the Burke and Wills expedition. ‘Afghan’ cameleers originate from India, Iran, Egypt and Turkey and help to open up the outback.
South Sea Islanders, mostly from the islands of New Guinea and New Britain, are recruited to work in Queensland cane fields – many are kidnapped in a practice called ‘blackbirding’. Disputes between South Sea Islanders and their employers are a feature of life in the sugar fields. Riots take place on Thursday Island and at Mackay, Ingham, Townsville, Rockhampton and Port Douglas.
Protection and Anti-Immigration League is established in Melbourne.
