City (pop., 2001: 191,169), chief port, and capital, Tasmania , Australia.
Located on the Derwent River estuary at the base of Mount Wellington, Hobart is Tasmania's largest and Australia's most southerly city. Established in 1803, it became a major port for ships whaling in the southern oceans. Its lack of natural resources limited its development. It now has a deepwater port, rail lines, and an airport, making it a focus of communications and trade. The city is the site of Anglican and Roman Catholic cathedrals and the first Jewish synagogue in Australia (built 1843–45).