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Old Courthouse: Echoes of Justice in Alice Springs
Explore the historic Old Courthouse in Alice Springs, a window into the Northern Territory's legal past and colonial architecture.
The Old Courthouse in Alice Springs is a tangible reminder of Central Australia's past, where pivotal decisions that shaped the region were made. Built in 1928, it served as the administrative and judicial center, witnessing the evolution of Alice Springs.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Old Courthouse
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
DC/Post Shop, 33 Hartley St, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, 0870, AU
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Getting There
Walking
The Old Courthouse is located at 33 Hartley St, within easy walking distance of many central Alice Springs locations. From the Alice Springs CBD, head west on Todd Street, turn left onto Hartley Street, and walk for approximately 10 minutes. The Old Courthouse will be on your left. From the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, walk south along the Todd River until you reach Hartley Street, turn left, and walk for about 1km. The courthouse will be on your right. Walking from either location will not incur any costs.
Public Transport
The Alice Springs public bus network operates from Monday to Saturday. Several bus routes service the town and may have stops near Hartley Street. Check the local bus schedule for the most suitable route. All public bus services are free from July 1, 2025.
Car
If driving, head towards Hartley Street in Alice Springs. From the Stuart Highway, take the exit towards Hartley Street. Limited public parking is available near the facility. Be aware of parking restrictions. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $2-$4 per hour.
Local tips
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Check opening hours in advance, as visiting times may be limited.
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Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the courthouse's history and significance.
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Bring a camera to capture the building's distinctive colonial architecture.
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Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Alice Springs Telegraph Station or the Araluen Arts Centre.
Discover more about Old Courthouse
The Old Courthouse stands as a significant historical landmark in Alice Springs, embodying the region's legal and administrative evolution. Constructed in 1928, the building initially functioned as the administrative offices for Central Australia, playing a crucial role in the governance of the area.
Designed to suit the arid environment, the Old Courthouse witnessed pivotal moments in Central Australia's history. From 1929 to 1931, it even served as the Supreme Court of Central Australia. The courthouse facilitated the extension of the railway and an increase in population, which led to the Local Court moving its office to the Town of Stuart. To avoid confusion, the town's name was officially changed to Alice Springs in 1933.
Though it ceased operating as a courthouse in 1980 with the opening of the new Alice Springs Law Court Building, the Old Courthouse remains a valued piece of community heritage. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved facade and immerse themselves in the stories of the past. The Old Courthouse is conveniently located near other Alice Springs attractions, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the region's cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Old Courthouse
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