From factions to parties in New South Wales : the transition begins, 1885-1892

Abstract

The emergence in 1886-87 of the political conflict between freetrade and protection marked the beginning of a period of far-reaching change in the politics of New South Wales. The basic change that was initiated was the transition from unprincipled personal factions to modern principled political parties. Although this transition had not been completed by the end of 1891, the five years after 1886 witnessed steady progress in the gradual evolution of the characteristics of modern political parties. Sophisticated party structures were constructed; modern methods of electoral management were formulated and put into operation; and the basic elements of the 'caucus system' of party discipline were introduced into the political system. Underlying all these developments was a new concern for political philosophy and principle as the chief determinant of political action and behaviour, replacing the 'old order' standards of personal prejudice and unprincipled opportunism. Political change, however, was neither smooth nor swift, and the residual strength and influence of 'old order' values and politicians acted to slow down the rate of change and to undermine its consolidation. Many of the changes and developments effected prior to 1892 proved insubstantial and short-lived. The most basic reason for this was the presence of deep-seated principled disunity and doctrinal dissension within each fiscal 'party'. Not until these destructive internal 'party' conflicts had been eradicated could political change proceed smoothly and be permanently consolidated. The creation of that principled cohesion basic to a true political party also depended upon the eradication of internal tension and disunity. At the end of 1891, this was still to be achieved.