Digital photography. A story of institutionalisation.

The Abbotsford Convent was saved from redevelopment by local community actions and is now an inspiring Arts Precinct.

Its history leaves me with mixed feelings. At a time when homeless and pregnant single women had no protection or support, the convent gave them safe haven. At a price. Children were often removed from their mothers, and many women worked in slave-like conditions laundering articles for Melbourne’s elite in order for the Convent to fund its charitable services. Many women experienced trauma as a result of their time at the Convent.