Governor Arthur Philip

Arthur Phillip went to a school for children of seamen. It is no surprise he would make a career of sailing the seas. Most of his career was spent in the British Navy. In 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip arrived in Australia with the First Fleet. He was the very first Governor in Australia.

Governor Phillip was given very strict orders on what he must do when he reached Australia. These orders were given by King George III.

The official orders given to Governor Phillip contained the following paragraph:

"And it is further Our Royal Will and Pleasure that you do by all proper methods enforce a due observance of religion and good order among all the inhabitants of the new settlement and that you do take such steps for the due celebration of public worship as circumstances will permit."

Governor Phillip made sure he kept his orders. He was part of the Anglican Church. He thought it was right to:

• treat the Aboriginals kindly and have good relationships with them
• he wanted to help convicts become law abiding citizens