HM Prison Geelong

HM Prison Geelong is a former correctional facility in Geelong, Victoria, constructed from bluestone and featuring multiple cell blocks, watchtowers, and exercise areas. The buildings are connected by corridors and walkways that show how the prison was laid out and organized during its years of operation.

The facility opened in 1864 as a maximum security prison and operated for more than 100 years before closing in 1991. Throughout its long history, it served as the main holding place for serious offenders from across Victoria.

The National Crime & Justice Museum within the facility documents how Australian society has dealt with crime and justice over time through displays of authentic objects and records. Visitors can see how prison conditions and practices evolved and what daily life was like for those confined inside.

The site is open to visitors daily throughout the year with guided tours available for groups of ten or more. Plan to spend several hours exploring the different sections and wear comfortable shoes as there is considerable walking involved.

The cells where some of Australia's well-known criminals served their sentences can still be examined by visitors today. Walking through these same spaces offers a direct connection to the individual stories of notorious inmates from earlier centuries.

Location: Victoria

Inception: 1864

Official opening: 1864

GPS coordinates: -38.15389,144.36556

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57