Australia when it was a british penal colony?

Transportation to Australia was part of the judicial system of Great Britain, especially in the 19th Century. It was imposed as punishment for even comparatively minor crimes. Prisoners were held in penal settlements. After their sentences had expired, many chose to remain and begin new lives, often as farmers in the Outback, thus contributing to the economic development of Australia. A good book on the subject is 'The Fatal Shore' by Robert Hughes. Follow the link.