Colonial Australia refers to the period from 1788 to 1901 when Australia was established as a series of British colonies. The first settlement began with the arrival of the First Fleet in Botany Bay, led by Captain Arthur Phillip. Over the years, additional colonies were formed, including New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, primarily for penal transportation and agricultural development. During this time, European settlers significantly impacted the land and the indigenous Aboriginal populations. The introduction of new farming practices and the establishment of towns transformed the landscape. The colonial era laid the foundation for the eventual federation of Australia in 1901.