The Australian Colonies were territories established by European settlers in Australia during the 18th and 19th centuries. The first colony, New South Wales, was founded in 1788, primarily as a penal settlement for British convicts. Over time, other colonies such as Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania were established, each with its own government and economy. These colonies played a significant role in the development of Australia, contributing to agriculture, mining, and trade. By the late 19th century, the colonies began to unite, leading to the formation of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901, which marked the beginning of a unified nation.