Welcome to AustralianConvictSites.org.au your dedicated gateway to the history, heritage and human stories of Australia’s convict era. We bring together research, site guides and educational resources to help visitors, teachers, students and heritage professionals explore one of the most important chapters in Australia’s past.
Our Purpose
Our mission is to interpret, preserve and share the story of convict transportation and colonial punishment in Australia its global context, local impacts and the lived experiences of the men, women and children who passed through these places. We aim to make that story accessible, accurate and respectful while supporting sustainable stewardship of the places themselves.
Who We Are
We are a coalition of historians, heritage specialists, educators and passionate volunteers who value evidence-based interpretation and community engagement. Our contributors include researchers, archaeologists, museum professionals and people with family histories connected to the convict sites. Together we combine scholarship with approachable storytelling to connect modern audiences with the past.
What We Cover
Australian Convict Sites is centred on the nationally and internationally significant convict places that shaped early colonial Australia. We provide:
- Site Profiles & Visitor Information: Practical guides for each place history, what to see, opening hours, tours and accessibility notes.
- Historical Context & Interpretation: Clear explanations of transportation, convict life, penal systems and colonial administration.
- Education Resources: Curriculum-linked materials, classroom activities and primary sources to support teachers and students.
- Research & Archives: Summaries of archaeological finds, conservation reports and links to primary documents for researchers.
- Conservation & Community Projects: Information on ongoing restoration work, volunteer opportunities and ways to support heritage management.
What We Offer
- Educational Resources
We provide comprehensive guides on scholarships, internships, study programs, and skill development to help students and professionals advance in their careers. - Financial Guidance
From tax aid tips to government assistance programs, our content helps users understand and manage their finances efficiently. - Community Support
We encourage engagement and sharing of ideas, creating a community where users can learn from each other and stay updated on educational and financial opportunities.
Why This History Matters
The convict era influenced Australia’s settlement patterns, built heritage, labour systems and social fabric. These sites are not just old buildings they are places where individual stories of hardship, resilience and change unfolded. Preserving and interpreting them helps us understand identity, justice, migration and how historical choices continue to shape present-day communities.