January 09

James Francis was born in London in 1819 and emigrated to Australia to pursue commercial ventures. He established a successful mercantile business before entering Victorian politics. Francis served as Premier from 1872 to 1874, emphasizing infrastructure development and fiscal reform. As Treasurer and Commissioner, he implemented policies that modernized the colony’s economy. His leadership helped shape Victoria during the peak of the gold rush era. He died in 1884, remembered for his dual impact on business and public service.