Hobart Clinic reopens after securing $2m state government funding lifeline

A private psychiatric clinic has officially reopened after the state government provided a $2 million funding lifeline to save the vital mental health facility.

Hobart Clinic at Rokeby. Picture: Caroline Tan

A private psychiatric clinic which temporarily closed after running into financial difficulties has officially reopened after receiving a state government funding lifeline.

The Hobart Clinic shut its 27-bed site in Rokeby in October before reopening on November 17, supported by a one-off $2m grant from the state government.

New board chair Tim Booker said it was hoped the clinic could be put on a sustainable footing.

“Our approach is to tackle this head on, rather than wait for the environment around us to solve it for us,” he said.

“Just because there are unique challenges in running a small private hospital, it does not mean there are not solutions that would allow us to fix the future model, some of which are well progressed.

“The non-negotiables are safe, consistent and high-quality patient care.

“We also need sustainability across the model, not just financially, but also a sustainable environment for clinicians and the infrastructure.

“The clinical leadership has worked tirelessly over the last month and a half to create a safe environment, and we are continuing to work to build a high-quality facility that clinicians and staff want to work at.”

Board member Rob Walters hailed the staff at the clinic for their work.

“The care of patients with mental health issues does not just depend on the psychiatrist, it depends on a very strong nursing staff,” Dr Walters said.

“Many of the staff have been very loyal to The Hobart Clinic. That is important to recognise.”

Hobart Clinic board chair Tim Booker, Clinical Director Hannah Lake and Health Minister Bridget Archer at the Hobart Clinic in Rokeby on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Bridget Archer attended Wednesday’s official reopening.

This transition funding provided by the government will allow the Hobart Clinic to keep the doors open for six months – giving them time to work through their operating model and long-term viability, she said.

“The Hobart Clinic plays a valued role in Southern Tasmania’s mental health system, providing a choice and catering to the needs of hundreds of clients who require non-acute private mental health care,” Minister Archer said.

Minister Archer said it was time the federal government also stepped in to assist the clinic’s long-term viability.

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation Secretary Emily Shepherd said the union was thrilled that the clinic was officially reopen.

“This is an absolute critical service to members of the Tasmanian community, particularly in the south, who are suffering from mental health concerns,” she said.

“It has been a lifeline for those who need longer inpatient stays and support to deal with often ongoing mental health challenges.

“It is incredibly pleasing to know that people who have accessed mental health support at the Hobart Clinic will now be able to continue to do so.