Kingston, Charles Cameron

Charles Cameron Kingston was Premier of South Australia from 1893 to 1899. He introduced the bill that successfully secured the vote for women in 1894, but for political gain only as he was against women's suffrage when in opposition. He also established a state bank and made generous factory laws. Kingston helped draft the Australian Constitution and was later a member of the first Federal Parliament, as minister for trade and customs. He was opposed to Chinese immigration and some suggest that later this opposition formed the basis for Australia's 'White Australia' policy. Kingston was a large and physically strong man. He was athlete in his young days and president of the South Adelaide Football Club from 1880 to 1908. Kingston was known for his violent temper and strong opinions. He was involved in duels and public brawling; in fact, he became Premier whilst under an order to keep the peace.