A few years ago, I had the transformative opportunity to visit Aradale Asylum in Victoria, and it changed my life forever. As a history lover, stepping into this historic site offered me a profound connection to the past, allowing me insights into Australia’s mental health practices and social history. But it was not just me who felt this impact—many others have shared in this unique and irreplaceable experience.

Sadly, despite its cultural and historical significance, Aradale Asylum has been closed due to concerns relating to its upkeep. This would not only erase an important part of Victoria's history but would also be a significant blow to the Ararat tourism community, which has thrived off the interest and intrigue this site brings. Particularly the hospitality and accommodation providers who are severely impacted.

Aradale Asylum opened in 1867 and served as one of the largest mental hospitals in Victoria. Its architectural grandeur and rich history offer educational opportunities to future generations and allow visitors to reflect on significant social progress in mental health care. However, without proper conservation efforts, we risk losing this irreplaceable heritage site, a piece of history that deserves to be preserved with the utmost care.

Tourism is a vital component of Ararat's economy, and the asylum has been central to tourism for decades. The decline in visitor numbers following the site's closure has had tangible, negative impacts on local businesses and services, affecting the livelihoods of many in the community. By investing in the conservation of Aradale Asylum, we can harness its historical appeal to reinvigorate the tourism sector in Ararat and secure economic benefits for the community.

Conserving Aradale involves not just keeping it open, but also ensuring its safety and accessibility, making renovations where necessary to maintain its structure while respecting its historical integrity. By turning this decaying site into a vibrant educational and tourist attraction, we honour those who lived and worked there, and we contribute to an understanding of our past.

I urge state officials, conservationists, and concerned citizens to join in this cause to save Aradale Asylum. Let us combine our efforts to give the Aradale Asylum the conservation attention it so rightly deserves and ensure it remains open as an educational and tourist haven.

Please sign this petition to support the preservation of Aradale Asylum, securing its legacy and future for generations to come.