Definition
The term “1968 in Australia” designates the calendar year 1968 as it relates to events, developments, and notable occurrences within the Commonwealth of Australia.
Overview
The year was marked by continued political stability under the Liberal‑Country coalition government, increased public debate over Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, and participation in major international sporting competitions. Cultural life featured developments in the arts, literature, and television, while the Australian economy experienced modest growth amid global inflationary pressures.
Etymology / Origin
The phrase follows the conventional “Year in Country” format used in historical and encyclopedic works to catalogue chronologically ordered national events. It combines the Gregorian calendar year “1968” with the geographic qualifier “Australia.”
Characteristics
Incumbents
- Monarch – Elizabeth II
- Governor‑General – Lord Casey (until 30 April); succeeded by Sir Paul Hasluck (from 29 July)
- Prime Minister – John Gorton (assumed office 10 January 1968 following the disappearance of Harold Holt in December 1967)
- Deputy Prime Minister – John McEwen (until 10 March); succeeded by John Gorton’s appointment of new cabinet members
Political and Social Events
- Leadership transition – John Gorton’s elevation to Prime Minister was confirmed by the Liberal Party’s internal vote on 9 January 1968.
- Vietnam War – Australian Defence Force involvement intensified; public anti‑war demonstrations grew, particularly in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.
- 1968 federal budget – Presented by Treasurer William McMahon, the budget projected a surplus of approximately A$1.2 billion and emphasized infrastructure spending.
- Aboriginal advocacy – Following the successful 1967 referendum, Aboriginal organisations continued campaigns for land rights and legal reforms, holding several rallies across New South Wales and Queensland.
Arts, Literature and Media
- Literature – Patrick White’s novel The Twyborn Affair was published, adding to his reputation as a leading Australian novelist.
- Television – The Australian Broadcasting Commission (ABC) expanded its regional news services, introducing nightly bulletins in several states.
- Film – Age of Consent (directed by Michael Powell) premiered in Australian cinemas, contributing to a modest revival of locally produced feature films.
Sport
- 1968 Summer Olympics (Mexico City) – Australia sent a delegation of 140 athletes. Sprinter Peter Norman won a silver medal in the 200 m, famously standing beside American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos during their medal‑podium protest.
- Australian Open (tennis) – Held in January as the last amateur‑only edition; the tournament would become open to professional players beginning in 1969 with the start of the Open Era.
- Rugby league – South Sydney Rabbitohs secured the New South Wales Rugby Football League premiership, defeating Manly‑Warringah Sea Eagles in the grand final.
Births
- 4 March – Jodie Bowering, future Australian field hockey Olympian.
- 12 July – Brendan Jones, professional golfer who would later win multiple international titles.
Deaths
- 14 August – Sir Douglas Mawson (born 1882), eminent geologist and Antarctic explorer, passed away in Australia.
Related Topics
- 1967 in Australia
- 1969 in Australia
- History of Australia (20th century)
- Vietnam War and Australian involvement
- Australian political history – Liberal–Country coalition
- Australian sport at the 1968 Summer Olympics
Note: The information presented reflects widely documented historical records. Where precise data (e.g., specific budget figures) are not publicly disclosed in primary sources, the description relies on secondary reports that are considered reliable.