1864–65 New South Wales colonial election

New South Wales colonial election, 1864–65

22 November 1864 – 10 January 1865
All 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly 37 Assembly seats were needed for a majority
Leader Charles Cowper James Martin Leader's seat East Sydney Tumut (elected to Lachlan and Monaro)
Premier before election James Martin Elected Premier Charles Cowper

The 1864–65 New South Wales colonial election was held between 22 November 1864 and 10 January 1865. 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. The previous parliament of New South Wales was dissolved on 10 November 1864 by the Governor, Sir John Young, on the advice of the Premier, James Martin. Suffrage was limited to adult white males.

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

Key dates

Date	Event
10 November 1864	The Legislative Assembly was dissolved, and writs were issued by the Governor to proceed with an election.
21 November to 23 December 1864	Nominations for candidates for the election closed.
22 November 1864 to 10 January 1865	Polling days.
24 January 1865	Opening of new Parliament.

Results

New South Wales colonial election, 22 November 1864 – 10 January 1865  Legislative Assembly << 1860–1869–70 >>
Enrolled voters		111,302
Votes cast		66,775		Turnout	51.40	+8.49
Informal votes		156		Informal	0.36	+0.19
Summary of votes by party
Party		Primary votes	%	Swing	Seats	Change
Total		66,775			72

References

• "Former members of the New South Wales Parliament, 1856-2006". New South Wales Parliament.

See also

• Members of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, 1864–1869
• Candidates of the 1864–65 New South Wales colonial election