SBS50: Fast Facts

Did you know that in 1980, Australia’s first test-tube baby was born? Today around one in six couples turn to fertility specialists for help in conceiving.

Did you know that, in 1981, Australia’s economy was booming, supported by tariff cuts and a unique wage accord with unions which banned industrial conflict.

Did you know that in 1982, the Immigration Review Tribunal was established? The Tribunal conducts merit reviews of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection’s visa-related decisions which are required to be...

Did you know that, in 1983, Australia made sailing history by winning the America’s Cup, breaking the United States’ 132-year winning streak?

Did you know that, in 1984, a heated debate raged in Australia about the influx of Asian migrants? It followed revelations that in the year before more than half of all immigrants had come from Asian countries. It was...

Did you know that, in 1985, stereo broadcasting on the AM frequency started in Australia? It was a last-ditch attempt to fight off the rising competition of many new FM stations which were popular with younger...

Did you know that, in 1986, the film Crocodile Dundee was released? Starring Aussie actor Paul Hogan, it was a worldwide smash hit, becoming the highest grossing Australian film ever.

Did you know that in 1987, the first mobile phone call was made in Australia? The first portable handsets were about the size of a briefcase, cost more than four thousand dollars and had a battery life of little more...

Did you know that in 1988, Australia celebrated the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain? Carrying more than 700 convicts over 250 marines and their families, the Fleet entered Sydney Harbour...

Did you know that, in 1989, Australia experienced one of its worst natural disasters when a massive earthquake shook Newcastle, killing 13 people and injuring more than 160? The 5.6 magnitude quake was also felt in many...

Did you know that, in 1990, Australia suffered severe economic difficulties including a stock market slump, high inflation and rising unemployment? It was the recession then Treasurer Paul Keating famously claimed “we...

Did you know that, in 1991, Australia was one of 34 countries to enter into a coalition contributing military forces to the Gulf War, following the invasion of Kuwait by its neighbour Iraq. However, the decision to send...

Did you know that, in 1992, the High Court of Australia recognised that Aboriginal people have native title over land and waters according to their customary law? Known as the Mabo case, the decision rejected the belief...

Did you know that, in 1993, the first website was launched? The new technology was made available to the public free of charge. It was the birth of the worldwide web. It was also the year of the official opening of the...

Did you know that, in 1994, Australia's population was over 17 million - almost twice the size it was at the end of World War Two? It was also the year when, on January 26, 1994, SBS Radio launched its national network...