Parramatta Female Factory Precinct

Located in Fleet St Parramatta NSW the Parramatta Female Factory Precinct represents two historic sites which have had a number of institutional uses over a period of nearly 200 years. The first was the Parramatta Female Factory (1821-1848) which served as the principal destination for all unassigned convict women transported to the colony of NSW; next was the Roman Catholic Orphan (orphanage) School which was built beside the Factory lands in 1841. In 1848 the Female Factory was re-assigned as a convict Lunatic and Invalid Asylum - a legacy which continues today in the form of Cumberland Hospital and in 1887 the Roman Catholic Orphan School was proclaimed an Industrial & Training School for Girls later known as Parramatta Girls Home. Since 1980 the former Girls Home has operated as the Norma Parker Detention Centre  for women.

The history of Parramatta Female Factory Precinct and its institutions is relatively unknown and though many of the original buildings remain in use they are in a state of disrepair. Over the years these sites have faced the threat of unsuitable development but thankfully they have been saved from demolition or inappropriate use in more recent times through community action. 

Today more needs to be done to ensure that these valuable historic sites are saved for future generations. Towards this end we have engaged in a number of campaigns calling for the protection and preservation of these sites. We welcome inquiries from people wishing to support our call for the Precinct to be designated as a cultural and heritage tourism destination. For more information please contact us here or visit our Take Action page.

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