Forrest ministry facts for kids

The Forrest Ministry was the very first government team in Western Australia after it gained "responsible government." This meant that Western Australia could now make its own laws and decisions, rather than having them made by someone far away. This important government team was in charge from December 29, 1890, until February 14, 1901. After them, the Throssell Ministry took over following the elections in 1901.

What is a Government Ministry?

A government ministry is like a special team of leaders. These leaders are called ministers. Each minister is in charge of a different part of running the country or state. For example, one minister might be in charge of schools, while another handles money. Together, they work to make important decisions and manage public services for everyone.

Western Australia's First Big Step

Before the Forrest Ministry, Western Australia was a "colony." This meant it was controlled by the British government. But in 1890, it became a self-governing colony. This was a huge step! It meant people in Western Australia could now elect their own leaders. These leaders would then form a government that was "responsible" to the people. This was a big change, giving the people more power over their own future.

Sir John Forrest: The First Premier

The leader of the Forrest Ministry was Sir John Forrest. He was the very first Premier of Western Australia. Think of the Premier as the head of the government, similar to a prime minister. Sir John Forrest was also the Colonial Treasurer. This meant he was in charge of all the government's money. He led the government for over 10 years, which is a very long time!

Key Roles in the Government Team

The Forrest Ministry had several important roles, each handled by a different minister:

• Premier and Colonial Treasurer: Sir John Forrest held these top jobs. He led the government and managed its finances.
• Colonial Secretary: This minister was like a general manager for the state. They looked after many different things, including education. People like George Shenton and George Randell held this role.
• Attorney-General: This person was the chief legal advisor to the government. They made sure laws were fair and followed correctly. Septimus Burt and Richard Pennefather were Attorney-Generals.
• Commissioner of Crown Lands: This minister managed all the land owned by the government. This was very important for farming and settlement. William Marmion and George Throssell were in this role.
• Commissioner of Railways and Minister for Works: This minister was in charge of building and maintaining important things like railways, roads, and public buildings. Harry Venn and Frederick Piesse held these jobs.
• Minister for Education: This role focused specifically on schools and learning. Edward Wittenoom and Henry Lefroy were Ministers for Education.
• Minister for Mines: As Western Australia had a lot of gold, this minister was very important. They looked after the mining industry. Edward Wittenoom and Henry Lefroy also held this position.

Why Was This Ministry Important?

The Forrest Ministry was important because it was the first of its kind. It set up how Western Australia would be governed for many years to come. During their time, Western Australia grew a lot, especially because of the gold rush. The government had to manage this growth and build new infrastructure like railways to support it. They helped shape the future of Western Australia.