Discuss the factors that led to the growth of cities in Australia and New Zealand before the First World War.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the factors that led to the growth of cities in Australia and New Zealand before the First World War. They may offer equal coverage of the two countries or they may emphasize their discussion of one, but both will be a feature of the response. Candidates may outline urbanization in each separately or they may integrate material and discuss political, economic, social and cultural aspects, but these need not all be covered or covered equally. They may refer to settlement plans, gold rushes, trade unionism and industrialization. Candidates may identify that cities appealed to immigrants, because they replicated provincial cities in Britain, were commercial and cultural centres, developed pleasant suburbs, and housed the growing working class. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, welfare legislation in the early 20th century, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.