Queensland's history – 2000s
2005
- Queenslander Ian Frazer and his team announce successful trials of a vaccine for cervical cancer, the first in the world. From 2007, the vaccine (called Gardasil) is given free of charge to many Australian school girls and young women.
- Queensland population hits four million.
2006
- Cyclone Larry hits North Queensland. A huge recovery effort follows, with the support of governments and individuals from across Australia.
2007
- Nambour-born Kevin Rudd Becomes the first Queenslander to become Australian Prime Minister since Francis Forde, who ruled for a few days in 1945.
2008
- Queensland Governor Quentin Bryce becomes the first female Australian Governor-General.
- Global financial crisis hits.
2009
- Queensland celebrates its 150th anniversary with a state-wide program of special events and celebrations.
- Queensland wins the State of Origin against NSW four years in a row – a record winning streak.
- Having been sworn-in in 2007 as Queensland’s first female Premier following the resignation of Peter Beattie, Anna Bligh wins the 2009 State Election in her own right, the first woman in Australia ever to do this.
Last reviewed 28 August 2009
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