[1] On his arrival in Australia, He became a partner in a general store in Taradale, Victoria[1] before moving to Queensland and leasing Chinchilla and Wongongera stations on the Darling Downs.

[1] Entering politics in 1870, Buchanan won the seat of Mitchell but resigned after being a member for only six or seven days.

In 1871, Buchanan won the seat of Warrego, and remained in the position for two years.

[2] After resigning his seat in the council, Buchanan he left for England to establish the London branch of the Queensland National Bank.

[3] He did not return to Queensland, dying in Rome, Italy, on 30 March 1883.