Eureka Stockade

During the Victorian goldrush of the 1850s, the colonial government charged a tax on goldmining, which was enforced through a licensing system. Individual 'diggers', as they were called, were required to obtain a license from the government before they could prospect for gold. The diggers resented this license, especially since they were required to pay it whether they found gold or not.

The Eureka Stockade was a protest in Ballarat launched by the diggers, who refused to pay the tax. The diggers were attacked by the British army, and many died. The ringleaders of the protest were charged with treason, but were acquited by a jury. One of the leaders later went on to become a member of the colonial Parliament.

The diggers at the Eureka Stockade hoisted a flag featuring the Southern cross, which at times has been suggested as a possible flag for Australia, to replace the current one.