1872 New South Wales colonial election

The 1872 New South Wales colonial election was held between 13 February and 28 March 1872. This election was for all of the 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and it was conducted in 52 single-member constituencies, six 2-member constituencies and two 4-member constituencies, all with a first past the post system. Suffrage was limited to adult white males. The previous parliament of New South Wales was dissolved on 3 February 1872 by the Governor, Lord Belmore, on the advice of the Premier, Sir James Martin.

1872 New South Wales colonial election

← 1869–7013 February 1872 –
28 March 1872
1874–75 →

All 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly
37 Assembly seats were needed for a majority
 
LeaderHenry ParkesSir James Martin
Leader's seatMudgee (elected to East Sydney)East Sydney (elected to East Macquarie)

Premier before election

Sir James Martin

Elected Premier

Henry Parkes

There was no recognisable party structure at this election; instead the government was determined by a loose, shifting factional system.

Key dates

DateEvent
3 February 1872The Legislative Assembly was dissolved, and writs were issued by the Governor to proceed with an election.
12 February to 7 March 1872Nominations for candidates for the election closed.
13 February to 28 March 1872Polling days.
30 April 1872Opening of new Parliament.

Results

New South Wales colonial election, 13 February 1872 – 28 March 1872 [1]
Legislative Assembly
<< 1869–701874–75 >>

Enrolled voters
Votes cast91,784Turnout48.44−5.26
Informal votes642Informal1.00+0.59
Summary of votes by party
PartyPrimary votes%SwingSeatsChange
Total91,784  72 

References

See also