The 1859 New South Wales colonial election was for 80 members representing 67 electoral districts. The election was conducted on the basis of a simple majority or first-past-the-post voting system. In this election there were 9 multi-member districts returning 22 members and 58 single member districts. In the multi-member districts each elector could vote for as many candidates as there were vacancies. 15 districts were uncontested. Queensland separated from NSW in December 1859 and the 10 members elected for the 9 Queensland seats ceased to sit.