KICKSTART operates a supportive community arts and cultural development hub where people can gather for a range of social, cultural, education, recreational, and health and wellbeing activities. It is a focal point for partnerships and projects between community, arts, science, health, education, heritage, and diverse cultural groups, enabling a whole range of new opportunities for Tasmanians to get involved, active and connected.

Kickstart is the custodian of an internationally significant collection of some of Australia’s oldest buildings. It is a site with immense cultural and historical significance to Tasmania. This includes two orphanage buildings built by Governor Arthur in 1831, around the same time as the iconic Port Arthur Prison and Anglesea Barracks. Kickstart is dedicated to renovating and rejuvenating these important buildings, bringing new life and purpose to them. We aim to maximise local access and liveliness in a respectful way to acknowledge the history of this place.