New South Wales has been a driving force behind an extraordinary range of inventions, innovations and cultural firsts. From science, medicine and engineering to industry, infrastructure, governance and storytelling, NSW is a leader in creative culture and independent thinking.

Polymer Banknotes (Plastic Money) – 1988

Developed in Sydney by the CSIRO in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of Australia, polymer banknotes were the world’s first plastic currency. They are more durable, secure, and hygienic than paper notes and have since been adopted by dozens of countries worldwide.

Rotary Clothes Hoist (Hills Hoist) – 1945

Invented in the suburbs of Sydney by Lance Hill, the rotary clothes hoist transformed domestic life through a simple but highly efficient mechanical design. It became an icon of Australian suburban culture and everyday innovation.

Photographic Dry-Plate Camera Shutter – 1885

In 1885, New South Wales–based inventor Lancelot Richardson developed an early photographic dry-plate camera shutter, a key innovation in the evolution of photography. His mechanism enabled more precise exposure control for dry-plate photography, helping photographers capture images more efficiently and reliably. This contribution supported the transition from wet-plate to dry-plate processes and played an important role in the advancement of modern photographic technology.

Box Kite – 1893

Developed by Lawrence Hargrave in New South Wales, the box kite was a breakthrough in aerodynamics. Its rigid, box-like structure produced far greater lift and stability than earlier flat kites, allowing heavier objects to be lifted safely. This invention helped demonstrate key principles of flight and directly influenced the early development of aviation.

Surf Lifesaving Reel – 1906 – 1907

Developed by Lyster Ormsby in collaboration with the Bondi Surf Life Saving Club in New South Wales, the surf lifesaving reel revolutionised beach rescue techniques. By using a rope-and-reel system operated from shore, lifesavers could retrieve swimmers from dangerous surf conditions more quickly and safely. This practical innovation became a cornerstone of surf lifesaving practices in Australia and internationally.

Automatic Totalisator (Betting Machine) – 1906-1913

Developed by Australian engineer George Julius in New South Wales, the automatic totalisator was a groundbreaking mechanical system that calculated betting odds and payouts automatically in real time. First installed in 1913, it solved major problems of scale, accuracy and speed in wagering systems and is widely regarded as one of the world’s earliest mechanical computers. The invention was adopted internationally and had lasting influence on automated data processing and financial systems.

Electric Drill (Portable Electric Tool) – 1889

Developed in New South Wales by electrical engineer Arthur James Arnot, the electric drill was one of the world’s first portable power tools. By integrating an electric motor into a handheld drilling device, this invention dramatically improved efficiency, precision and safety in industrial and construction work. It laid the foundation for the modern power tool industry used globally today.

Zinc Cream (Sun Protection) – early 1900s

Developed and popularised in Australia by pharmaceutical companies such as Faulding Pharmaceuticals, zinc cream became one of the earliest effective forms of sun protection. Using zinc oxide to create a physical barrier against ultraviolet radiation, the cream was widely adopted by surfers, lifesavers and outdoor workers in New South Wales. This practical health innovation helped reduce sun damage and influenced modern approaches to skin cancer prevention.

Automated Shark Detection Drone – 2016-2017

Developed in New South Wales by the Little Ripper Group, the automated shark detection drone combines aerial surveillance with artificial intelligence to identify sharks near beaches in real time. The system provides rapid alerts to lifesavers, improving swimmer safety while reducing the need for harmful shark control measures. This innovation represents a modern approach to coastal safety that balances technology, environmental responsibility and community wellbeing.

New South Wales has been shaped by leaders, explorers, innovators and reformers whose influence can still be seen in its institutions, communities and public life. The individuals below are selected for their long-term historical impact on NSW, from early colonial governance and cross-continental exploration to social reform, aviation innovation and landmark political change.

Governor Arthur Phillip (1738–1814) — “No slavery” and labour in early New South Wales

Arthur Phillip (1738 – 1814), the first Governor of New South Wales, is often linked to an early statement that there should be “no slavery in a free land, and consequently no slaves,” reflecting an intention that formal chattel slavery would not be established as a legal institution in the colony.

Lachlan Macquarie (1762–1824) — Governor & Colonial Reformer

Lachlan Macquarie served as Governor of New South Wales during a decisive period of transformation for the colony. He is strongly associated with major public works, civic development and administrative change that shaped early Sydney and the wider colony’s institutions.

Woollarawarre Bennelong (c.1764–1813) – Eora Leader & Cultural Intermediary

Bennelong was an Eora man of the Wangal clan whose life became central to early contact history in Sydney. He remains significant as an Aboriginal figure documented in early colonial records and as a person who travelled to Britain and returned, representing a complex, enduring story tied to NSW history.

Gregory Blaxland (1778–1853) — Pioneer & Explorer (Blue Mountains)

Gregory Blaxland is best known for being part of the 1813 crossing of the Blue Mountains, a turning point that opened routes west of Sydney for colonial expansion. His role is often referenced in NSW’s early inland exploration narrative

Lawrence Hargrave (1850–1915) — Inventor & aviation pioneer

Lawrence Hargrave conducted influential aeronautical experiments in NSW, and his work on flight principles (including the box kite) helped shape early aviation thinking. He is often highlighted as a major Australian innovator with strong NSW connections.

Ruby Payne-Scott (1912–1981) — Physicist & radio astronomy pioneer

Born in Grafton (NSW), Ruby Payne-Scott became a pioneer of radio physics and radio astronomy, contributing to early research that helped establish a new scientific field. 

John Tebbutt (1834–1916) — Astronomer & meteorologist (Windsor, NSW)

John Tebbutt was a renowned NSW-based astronomer and meteorologist who made sustained observations over decades from his observatory in Windsor. He remains one of the best-known figures in Australia’s nineteenth-century observational astronomy.