1864–65 New South Wales colonial election

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.^[3] 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.

New South Wales colonial election, 1864–65

← 1860 22 November 1864 – 10 January 1865 1869–70 →
All 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly 37 Assembly seats were needed for a majority
First party Second party   Leader Charles Cowper James Martin Party Opposition Government Leader's seat East Sydney Tumut (elected to Lachlan and Monaro) Seats before 36[1] 29[1] Seats won 48[2][1] 19[2][1] Seat change 12 10
Results of the election, showing winners in each seat. Seats without member charts indicate the electorate returned one member.
Premier before election James Martin Elected Premier Charles Cowper

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

Main article: Results of the 1864–65 New South Wales colonial election

New South Wales colonial election, 22 November 1864 – 10 January 1865 [3] Legislative Assembly << 1860–1869–70 >>
Enrolled voters		111,302
Votes cast		66,775		Turnout	51.40 [a]	+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

1. There were 15 uncontested districts and turnout is based on the roll of 84,683 for the contested districts.^[3]