Between 1863 and 1888 seven intercolonial conferences were held to consider various intercolonial issues.

These issues included: uniform tariffs and trade (Melbourne 1863, 1870; Sydney 1873); uniform postal services (Melbourne 1867); the exclusion of Chinese immigrants (Sydney 1881; Brisbane 1888); and the establishment of a Federal Council (Sydney 1883).

Agreement between the colonies was reached on few issues, although the conference of 1870 led to the development of a Royal Commission in Victoria to consider Federation. The 1870 conference initiated a Royal Commission in Victoria to consider Federation.

At the 1867 conference (which included New Zealand), New South Wales Premier Henry Parkes spoke in favour of a ‘federal bond of connection’.

 In the same year Canadian colonies federated into a single nation.