About Us

Penitentiary - Iconic

The iconic penitentiary at the Port Arthur Historic Site(Credit: PAHSMA - photo by Joe Shemesh, 2007)

The Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority

Since its creation in 1987, the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA) has been responsible for preserving and maintaining one of Australia’s most important heritage sites and major tourism destinations.

In 2004 the Authority was also given responsibility for the Coal Mines Historic Site, located near Saltwater River, about a half hour drive from Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula.

For this reason, reference is often made to the Port Arthur Historic Sites.

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PAHSMA is a Government Business Enterprise and operates under the provisions of the following principle acts of Tasmania's State Parliament:

  • Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority Act 1987
  • Government Business Enterprises Act 1995
  • Historic Cultural Heritage Act 1995
  • National Parks and Reserve Management Act 2002
  • State Service Act 2000.

Our Vision

‘To conserve, manage and promote the Port Arthur Historic Site and Coal Mines Historic Site as cultural tourism places of international significance’

Our Statement of Purpose

To manage the Port Arthur Historic Sites by:

  • Conserving the heritage values of the sites
  • Creating a unique and interactive visitor experience
  • Ensuring its financial viability
  • Valuing its staff
  • Considering the community.

Organisational Structure

View a chart of the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority's organisational structure