Society

South Australian society is rich in diversity and unique in character. Indigenous communities, early settlers and immigrants comprised part of the rich tapestry of South Australia, shaping its development as they became part of the 'radical dream' - a social experiment that commenced with the lofty ideals of Edward Gibbon Wakefield then developed into successful social reform. South Australians enjoyed a freedom of worship that attracted a variety of religions to the 'paradise of dissent' and became a catalyst for social change. South Australia granted women suffrage in 1894, establishing a benchmark for gender-based equality and a reputation for political progressiveness.

After Federation in 1901, the state retained a unique identity. An example of this is in our role as 'the Festival State', showcasing the best acts from the fields of music, film and visual arts as well as celebrating our food and wine industries. Today, South Australians make changes to society on a local level that can be shared with the world through Your Story. Experience South Australia's social heritage as preserved by the State Library of South Australia.

 

	A Rich tapestry South Australian communities		The Radical dream Social reform in South Australia		Religion in South Australia A diversity of faiths
	Women and politics Social and political development		Charles P Mountford Photography and ethnography of indigenous people		The State of the arts Arts and culture in South Australia
	Advance Australia South Australia and federation		Your story Add your story		Virtual books Read selected items online
	Fact sheets and bibliographies