About Us

The Past

Clergy have been exercising their role as chaplains since the time Europeans settled in Tasmania. The first Chaplain to the colony was the Reverend Robert Knopwood. He was called to minister to free settlers, the soldiers and the convicts. Of necessity the work took him to the several prisons and hospitals of emerging Hobart Town.

Robert Knopwood was an employee of the Crown. When the government ceased to fund chaplaincies, the Anglican Church recognised the continuing need for chaplains and maintained its commitment to provide for the work. In 1888, for example, 250 pounds were set aside by Synod for chaplaincy work to prisons and hospitals in Launceston and Hobart.

The Present

Chaplains provide ongoing ministry to patients in hospitals, and residents in aged care facilities as well as to their families, carers and staff.

Stipended chaplains work in Burnie, Launceston and Hobart. They are supported by volunteer chaplains.

Today chaplains, lay and ordained provide ministry to both the public and private sectors as well as nursing homes.

The most recent appointment has been a full time chaplain in the prison system. This position is assisted by some government funding.