History

In 1997 a seed was planted when four people found they had the same idea at the same time – to create an event that would showcase sustainable home ideas. With humble beginnings, the first Alternative Home Expo was held in a marquee in the car park of the Home Ideas Centre in Hobart. Programs were printed on office photocopiers at night and posters hand drawn.

It was the first event of its kind in Tasmania (maybe even in Australia), and it created a forum for ‘environmentally friendly’ business to start a conversation with consumers about sustainable products and ideas. All involved were overwhelmed by the turnout and knew that they had started something big!

In 1999, with sponsorship from the Hobart City Council, the event expanded and moved to Hobart’s City Hall. Sustainable Living Tasmania (The Environment Centre) coordinated what then became Tasmania’s Environmental Home Expo featuring more exhibits, talks and displays.

Year after year the City Hall was filled and the Expo expanded to include a broader representation of sustainable living. It was from this that the name was changed once more to the Sustainable Living Expo.

In 2008, City Hall was literally bursting at the seams and so it was decided that the time had come to move once again. In its 11th year the Sustainable Living Expo will be held in Wharf No.1 on Hobart's Waterfront. The event continues to provide Tasmanian’s with innovative ideas and the opportunity to adopt a lighter way of living. It is truly an authentic Tasmanian event for the people of Tasmania.