1869–70 New South Wales colonial election

The 1869–70 New South Wales colonial election was held between 3 December 1869 and 10 January 1870. This election was for all of the 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and it was conducted in 52 single-member constituencies, six 2-member constituencies and two 4-member constituencies, all with a first past the post system. Suffrage was limited to adult white males. The previous parliament of New South Wales was dissolved on 15 November 1869 by the Governor, Lord Belmore, on the advice of the Premier, John Robertson.

New South Wales colonial election, 1869–70

← 1864–65 3 December 1869 – 10 January 1870 1872 →
All 72 seats in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly 37 Assembly seats were needed for a majority
Leader Charles Cowper John Robertson Leader's seat (elected to Liverpool Plains) Clarence (elected to West Sydney)
Premier before election John Robertson Elected Premier Charles Cowper

There was no recognisable party structure at this election; instead the government was determined by a loose, shifting factional system.

Key dates

Date	Event
15 November 1869	The Legislative Assembly was dissolved, and writs were issued by the Governor to proceed with an election.
2 December to 27 December 1869	Nominations for candidates for the election closed.
3 December 1869 to 10 January 1870	Polling days.
27 January 1870	Opening of new Parliament.

Results

New South Wales colonial election, 3 December 1869 – 10 January 1870 [1] Legislative Assembly << 1864–65–1872 >>
Enrolled voters		124,433
Votes cast		87,137		Turnout	53.70 [a]	+2.30
Informal votes		226		Informal	0.41	+0.05
Summary of votes by party
Party		Primary votes	%	Swing	Seats	Change
Total		87,137			72

1. There were 11 uncontested districts and turnout is based on the roll of 103,795 for the contested districts.^[1]