1. James Matra's Proposal (1783) — The starting point

The earliest formal proposal came from James Matra

Document: Proposal for Establishing a Settlement in New South Wales (1783)

Submitted to Lord Sydney with assistance from Evan Nepean

Matra proposed:

• Settlement at Botany Bay

• American Loyalists and British convicts as settlers

• Strategic naval base

• Trade opportunities including fur, flax and spices

This document directly influenced the government of William Pitt the Younger

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2. Treasury & Cabinet considerations (1785–1786)

Between 1785–1786, the plan gained momentum under:

• William Pitt the Younger

• Lord Sydney

• Evan Nepean

Key drivers:

• American colonies lost after American Revolutionary War

• Prison overcrowding in Britain

• Need for new transportation destination

• Failure of penal settlements in Africa

• Strategic naval base in Pacific

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3. Official decision (1786)

The closest thing to an official decision is:

18 August 1786 — Cabinet Decision -The British Government formally approves:

• Establishment of penal colony at Botany Bay

• Transportation of convicts

• Appointment of governor

This is recorded in Home Office correspondence.

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4. Governor appointment (1786)

Official step confirming the decision:

12 September 1786

Arthur Phillip was appointed:

"Captain Arthur Phillip is appointed Governor of the intended colony at NSW"

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5. Official Government instructions (1787)

Formal instructions issued to Arthur Phillip: 25 April 1787

These include:

• Establish colony

• Maintain order

• Allocate land

• Govern convicts

• Harmonious relations with Aboriginal people

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