The Commonwealth of Australia – the official title of the Australian nation, established when the 6 states representing the 6 British colonies joined together at federation in 1901. In terms of the Fair Work Act, the WHS Act and the Sex Discrimination Act, the Commonwealth is represented by the various Government Departments and other Commonwealth entities, including a Commonwealth Authority or a body corporate incorporated in a Territory.
A Commonwealth employee is a person who holds an office or appointment in the Australian Public Service, or holds an administrative office, or is employed by a public authority of the Commonwealth.[63]