An Indigenous woman has died in custody after suffering a serious medical episode while on remand.
The woman was transferred to hospital in the early hours of Saturday from Mary Hutchinson Women's Prison in Hobart, prison authorities say.
"She experienced a serious medical episode. Sadly she passed away at the hospital ... on Monday," a Tasmania Prison Service spokeswoman said.
Her death has been referred to the coroner for investigation, as per process with any death in custody, the state prison director said.
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service acknowledged the woman's passing, saying it would be felt across the island.
The legal service stood ready to support the family and community during this difficult time, CEO Jake Smith said.
"It is with great sadness that we have seen an Aboriginal death in custody here in Tasmania," he said.
More than 600 Indigenous people have died in custody across Australia since a royal commission concluded in 1991.
That figure accounts for nearly 20 per cent of deaths in custody, despite Indigenous people making up less than four per cent of the Australian population.
"While it is too early to comment on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, it is a reminder of the urgent need for culturally safe and effective justice systems," Mr Smith said.
The state's director of prisons provided condolences to the woman's family and friends, and said no further comment could be made with the matter referred to the coroner.
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