How was the Australian Capital Territory governed before self-government began in 1989?

Before the introduction of self-government in 1989, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) was governed directly by the federal government of Australia.1

While the federal government maintained direct control, the administration of the territory included the following features:

• Advisory Bodies: At various times starting from the 1930s, there were partly or wholly elected advisory bodies that provided input to the federal government.1
• Administrative Oversight: The development and administration of the territory were managed by the Department of Territories.2
• Planning and Development: Following the recommendations of a Senate Select Committee, the National Capital Development Commission was established in 1958. This commission held wide-ranging powers to plan, develop, and construct the capital, including responsibility for land servicing, infrastructure, and public buildings.3

This centralized federal administration remained in place until 1989, when the territory transitioned to its current system of self-government.13