The history of the French in Australia dates from the arrival of the La Perouse expedition at Botany Bay in January 1788, just days after the landing of the First Fleet.
Australia’s relations with France are underpinned by strong and enduring historical links. There has been consular and diplomatic engagement since 1842, and cooperation in both the First World War and the Second World War.
According to the 2016 Census, there were 135,382 people of French descent in Australia and 31,120 French-born people residing in Australia.
TEAM FRANCE
Have you ever wanted to pull on your national jumper and represent your country?
Playing Footy 9s gives you an opportunity to do just that! It’s a fun and exciting new sport, with both full contact (tackling) and non-contact (no tackling) options to choose from.
If you are of French descent and keen to represent France, please join the Team France Facebook group.
AFL PLAYERS
Allan La Fontaine
