Members
Of the first Australian parliament

Frederick William Piesse was born and educated in Hobart, Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania). He became a certified conveyancer in 1871 and was involved in a number of business enterprises, including tanning, shipping businesses and fruit growing. He was a member of the Tasmanian House of Assembly 1893-94 and the Legislative Council 1896-1901. Piesse was an ardent federationist.

Piesse was elected to represent Tasmania as a Freetrader in the House of Representatives at the first federal election in 1901. His federal parliamentary career was short, but he was an indefatigable worker in the public interest and known for being upright and conscientious. He died at his home while still in office in March 1902.

Piesse’s seat was won by William Hartnoll in a by-election in March 1902.