British Influence on Australian Physics, 1788–1988

The influence of the traditions, methodologies and practices of British physics on Australian physics has been extraordinarily strong, from the earliest days of the colony (when astronomy and meteorology were of some interest) until very recent times (when other influences, particularly from the USA, have become apparent). In Australia's second century of European settlement, the influence of the Cavendish Laboratory at Cambridge University has been especially important. These influences have been outlined, and their effects on Australian physics have been discussed.