Tasmania's mental hospital complex joins global Sites of Conscience
Willow Court, a former psychiatric complex in New Norfolk, earned Sites of Conscience status this year, recognising its difficult history.
Willow Court in New Norfolk is a 40-minute drive from Hobart. The complex once housed Tasmania's only mental hospital, founded in 1827 and operating for 170 years.
This year, Willow Court joined 365 global Sites of Conscience, places that recognise difficult histories while working toward human rights today. The complex now hosts community businesses including a restaurant, bookshops, letterpress studios, antique stores and artist groups.
Local business owners describe New Norfolk as a thriving community with genuine character and passion. The town was founded in 1807.
It is known for its pioneering paper mill, which made the world's first newsprint from eucalyptus. Today it remains a centre for arts, crafts and small business.
- 1827
- Willow Court founded
- 170 years
- Operating years
- 365 global sites
- Sites of Conscience joined
- 1807
- New Norfolk founded
Why it mattersRecognising difficult histories helps communities heal and learn. New Norfolk shows how places can transform without erasing what happened.
AustraliaWillow Court is the first Australian mental health institution recognised as a Site of Conscience, highlighting Tasmania's role in confronting its psychiatric past.
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