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Hobart

Hobart is the capital and largest city of Tasmania, an island state of Australia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Hobart is the capital and largest city of Tasmania, an island state of Australia. It is located on the River Derwent estuary in the southeast of Tasmania and is known for its historic harbour, colonial-era buildings, and role as a port for Antarctic operations.

History

European settlement in the Hobart area began in 1803, and the settlement was moved to Sullivans Cove in 1804. Hobart later became the capital of Tasmania and is widely described as Australia’s second-oldest capital city after Sydney.

Geography

Hobart is located in southeast Tasmania on the estuary of the River Derwent, near Mount Wellington. Its harbour and waterfront setting have shaped its development as a port city.

Economy and role

Hobart serves as Tasmania’s administrative and financial centre. It is also a deep-water port and a base for Australian and French Antarctic operations.

Culture and attractions

The city is known for its heritage streetscapes, Salamanca Place and Market, and major cultural institutions such as MONA. Tourism is an important part of the local economy.

Key facts

  • Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and the southernmost Australian state capital.
  • The city was founded in 1804 as a British penal colony.
  • Hobart is Tasmania’s financial and administrative centre.
  • Its harbour has made it an important port for Antarctic voyages and Southern Ocean shipping.
  • Major attractions include Salamanca Market and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA).

Frequently asked questions

What is Hobart?
Hobart is the capital and largest city of Tasmania, Australia.
When was Hobart founded?
The modern settlement at Hobart was established in 1804, after an earlier European settlement in 1803.
Where is Hobart located?
It is in southeast Tasmania, on the estuary of the River Derwent.
Why is Hobart important?
It is Tasmania’s administrative centre, a major port, and a gateway for Antarctic operations.
What is Greater Hobart?
Greater Hobart refers to the wider metropolitan area around the City of Hobart.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hobart
    Supports: General overview, founding date, population, role as capital, Antarctic port use, and major attractions
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Hobart-Tasmania-Australia
    Supports: Hobart as Tasmania’s capital and chief port, location, and geographic setting
  3. FactSnippet — https://www.factsnippet.com/site/facts-about-hobart.html
    Supports: Location, capital status, and claim that Hobart is the southernmost Australian capital city
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Hobart
    Supports: Early settlement history, 1804 relocation, and administrative role