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The Minns Labor Government today announced that this year’s Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony will be held at the iconic Sydney Opera House forecourt, a setting that reflects the significance of the unique celebration where we proudly welcome new Australians into our vibrant multicultural society.

The new location offers a powerful and symbolic backdrop as more than 350 new citizens officially join the Australian community. From 10.30am on Monday 26 January, a grand ceremony and celebration of our country will take place as hundreds of people from all backgrounds and ethnicities along with their loved ones will gather to officially call Australia home.

Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns and Minister for Multiculturalism, Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper will speak at the event along with special guests, which will culminate in an emotional rendition of Advance Australia Fair.

Polish-born professor Mark Spigelman, who arrived in Sydney as a refugee, will also deliver an address. A child survivor of the Holocaust, professor Spigelman, along with his family, would go on to make a large impact in science, medicine, law and the nation’s human rights landscape.

Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency, The Hon. Margaret Beazley will lead new citizens in their Pledge and Affirmation with proceedings hosted by Australia Day Council of NSW Board Member Joseph Carrozzi AM.

The ceremony will provide a meaningful moment to recognise those who are formally joining the Australian community, reinforcing a shared sense of belonging, civic responsibility and national identity.

The NSW Government Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony joins an extensive program of events across Sydney and the state for Australia Day 2026, the largest in the country.

More details are available at www.australiaday.com.au

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“The iconic Sydney Opera House forecourt is a fitting location for such a significant celebration where we proudly welcome new Australians into our vibrant multicultural society.

“The Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony will be a vibrant and uplifting moment, honouring our newest citizens and the diverse, dynamic society they join.

“It’s an opportunity to honour what unites us, our shared values, our diversity and the spirit of mateship that strengthens our nation.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to better protect animals by progressing the review of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTAA) with a set of proposed law changes.

The NSW Government’s review of POCTAA and these proposed changes represent the most comprehensive reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, recognising the need for modern legislation to align with community expectations. 

Among the proposed changes include offences for leaving dogs in hot vehicles, tougher animal fighting laws and banning the use of painful prong collars.

While there is no one register of complaints, in the six years to 2024/25 RSPCA NSW data identifies more than 500 reports from the public of dogs being ‘locked in cars’.

The proposed changes have been informed by extensive stakeholder consultation, animal welfare data and scientific evidence.

More than 7,000 submissions have been received through a range of consultation processes – including feedback on the re-make of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation in early 2025, and from recent parliamentary inquiries.

The Minns Government’s proposed changes aim to strengthen animal welfare protections and set clear expectations on acceptable practices. They include:

• Strengthening animal fighting offences to address potential loopholes and support NSW police in addressing their links to organised crime
• New offences for:
  • leaving a dog unattended in a hot vehicle
  • using or possessing prong collars which are a discredited and painful dog training tool that is currently illegal to import
  • possessing glue traps that are already illegal to set in NSW
• Strengthening enforcement powers and penalties to send clear signals to perpetrators of animal cruelty
• Removing barriers to humane intervention in critical situations – allowing POCTAA inspectors to administer pain relief to animals where necessary and allowing appropriately trained Local Land Services personal to euthanise animals in emergencies.

Feedback from the community strongly indicates a desire for this modernisation of the state’s animal welfare laws.

The Government will discuss these proposed changes with key stakeholders and expects to present a bill to Parliament in the first half of 2026.

The proposals are part of the Minns Government’s commitment to delivering important animal welfare reforms and build on achievements already delivered over the last two years including:

• Banned puppy farms by passing legislation in 2024
• Delivered over $25.3 million in funding across 2024-26 for approved charitable organisations to carry out animal welfare enforcement activities
• Improved financial and performance reporting for approved charitable organisations receiving taxpayer funds to carry out animal welfare enforcement
• Reformed legislation to prevent people convicted of animal cruelty offences from keeping and breeding animals

The NSW Government is ensuring modern, evidence-based animal welfare laws are in place and supports effective enforcement of the laws and regulations.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The Minns Government is committed to protecting animals from harm and promoting their welfare.

These proposed changes mark the most significant reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, delivering modern legislation that reflects contemporary community expectations.

“Leaving dogs in locked cars on hot days is not acceptable, and neither is the use of collars with prongs that spike into the necks of puppies and dogs.

“I’ve heard firsthand community views that put expectations on our government to take action and set these matters right.

“Fair minded people and industry stakeholders are requesting improved compliance and enforcement of animal welfare laws.

“There has been a significant volume of feedback from the public on animal welfare and that feedback has informed the policy positions we have set out.

“Now we are getting on with the job of drafting a bill to change the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.”

Animal Welfare League NSW chief executive officer Stephen Albin said:

“These proposed new laws address significant gaps in animal welfare.

“This package of proposed laws addresses some of the worst examples of animal cruelty

“Laws for leaving a dog in a hot car and using prong collars are critical – they are two examples of animal cruelty that require legal action given the harm they cause.

“Our inspectors on the front line are often called out to animals in distress, and it is important that they can provide pain relief.

“Our inspectors also spend a lot of time educating people about animal welfare, but the new laws provide much-needed new powers to deal with the worst cases and offenders.”

Lyn Brown, member of the DOGS NSW Media & Government Legislation Committee said:

“As the peak body representing all canines, we are supportive of positive welfare outcomes for all animals.

“DOGS NSW supports law changes that promise to deliver added protections for animals by setting clear expectations on acceptable practices pertinent to leaving dogs in hot cars, the use of prong collars, and measures to strengthen animal fighting offences by addressing potential loopholes.

“We are looking forward to continuing to be part of the deliberations and look forward to seeing them become law.”

A glittering lineup of performers are set to grace the stage for the NSW Seniors Festival Premier’s Gala Concerts at Darling Harbour.

Free tickets to the concerts, billed as a highlight of the Seniors Festival, will be available to all New South Wales Seniors from Tuesday 27 January. The theme for the 2026 NSW Seniors Festival is ‘Live life in colour’. 

Internationally acclaimed talent Dami Im, celebrated singer Nathan Foley, beloved entertainer Jay Laga’aia, rising star Olivia Fox and powerhouse performer Tarryn Stokes will round out the lineup and deliver spectacular entertainment.

Four performances will be held at the TikTok Entertainment Centre Darling Harbour (formerly ICC Sydney Theatre) on 11 and 12 March at 11am and 2.45pm.

Concerts will be live streamed to ensure seniors unable to attend in person can still enjoy festivities.

Last year, the Premier’s Gala Concerts sold out with close to 32,000 tickets issued.

PREMIER’S GALA CONCERTS

Location: Tik Tok Entertainment Centre (formerly ICC Sydney Theatre), Darling Harbour

Dates: 11 and 12 March

Times: 11am and 2.45pm

The NSW Seniors Festival Expo will also be returning in 2026 with exhibitors offering services and support to seniors, including interactive workshops, food and fitness tips.

Free tickets for the Premier’s Gala Concerts will be available from 9am on 27 January 2026 at: https://seniorsfestival.info/galaconcert  

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“The Premier’s Gala Concerts always generate significant excitement from seniors across New South Wales and this year’s event is shaping up to be unforgettable.

“Older people in New South Wales make an outstanding contribution to our communities and these concerts are about giving back and valuing them.

“The Seniors Festival expo is only a stone’s throw away from the concerts, with exhibitors offering everything from health and travel information to hands-on activities, technology support, and creative workshops.”

Dami Im, performer said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of this year’s Premier’s Gala Concerts. The NSW Seniors Festival is such a special occasion, and I’m excited to perform for this beautiful audience. It’s going to be a wonderful couple of days filled with music, fun, and celebration!”

Jay Laga’aia, performer said:

“What an exciting time of the year! Seniors are such a valuable part of our community and it’s an honour to bring joy to so many at the Premier’s Gala Concerts. We’ve got amazing performers, a brilliant band, beautiful dancers, and more. I can’t wait to bring a little old school vibe to a beautiful gathering.”

Sydney is now home to the world’s best fish market following the Minns Labor Government completing the new Sydney Fish Market that officially opens for business today.

Rising from the water on Sydney Harbour, the new Fish Market is the third major landmark on Sydney Harbour joining the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and is set to attract more than six million local and international visitors each year.

This globally recognised architectural marvel combines world leading engineering with state-of-the-art technology bringing together a fully operational wholesale fish market, where retail, dining, education and public space all come together under the one spectacular fish scale inspired roof.

Seafood lovers, fishers and the broader community can now enjoy double the retail space of the old fish market, with the spectacular new building offering 40 food and retail operators, from casual takeaway to premium waterfront restaurants.

The new Sydney Fish Market also includes modern facilities for wholesalers including ice-making systems capable of producing more than 50,000 kilograms of ice daily, live crustacean tanks, and a brand-new auction room, visible to the public.

In addition to the building, the precinct features 6,000 square metres of public domain including a water play art feature, creative installations and a waterfront promenade where locals and visitors can connect, relax or stroll through.

Additional light rail services will support the new Sydney Fish Market with even more public transport options to follow, including a new ferry wharf, upgrades to Wentworth Park light rail and the upcoming metro at Pyrmont.

The Minns Labor Government has also partnered with Mirvac to revitalise the old fish market site at Blackwattle Bay, where 1,400 new homes will be built, along with 2.6 hectares of public space as well as a new promenade completing the 15 kilometre foreshore walk from Rozelle Bay to Woolloomooloo.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“Today Sydney opens the doors to what is undoubtedly the best fish market in the world — a new iconic Sydney landmark rising straight out of our harbour, showcasing world-class Australian seafood that gives locals and visitors another must-see destination in our city.”

“The old fish market attracted around three million visitors a year, and we expect this new one to double that to more than six million, making it a magnet for tourism, jobs and spending, and a powerful boost for the NSW economy.”

“It will be boosted by a new ferry service, additional light rail services and a brand new metro station at Pyrmont, all while unlocking huge public spaces and 1,400 new homes on the old fish market site.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“With a unique mix of wholesalers, retail and dining all housed in a state of the art building the new Sydney Fish Market is a landmark and world leading destination you simply can’t miss.

“Whether you’re a foodie, fisher or architecture enthusiast Sydney Fish Market has something for everyone from fresh seafood, to take-away fish and chips,  fine dining overlooking the Western Harbour and opens up fantastic new public spaces for the community to relax and enjoy.

“The new facility also helps to unlock more housing, with the old fish market site already rezoned to enable the delivery of 1400 new water front homes.”

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said

“The new Sydney Fish Market is a magnificent development that will give an enormous boost to the NSW commercial seafood industry.

“For years to come will support the more than 1000, mostly small family businesses, that make up our commercial seafood industry.

“This market represents the future, showcasing our state’s seafood to the world and it is a powerful platform for the future of the industry.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The new Sydney Fish Market is set to become one of Australia’s must‑visit destinations, ready to welcome up to six million visitors a year and deliver a major boost to Sydney’s tourism economy and jobs sector.

“As the state’s newest landmark and a striking new icon to Sydney Harbour, it is set to achieve global recognition on par with the Sydney Opera House.

“An architectural and engineering triumph, the Sydney Fish Market features state‑of‑the‑art systems, cutting‑edge facilities and a purpose‑built design that supports a fully operational wholesale and retail hub, built to serve generations of seafood lovers.

“With waterfront dining, fresh seafood experiences and vibrant public spaces, it’s designed to draw locals and travellers back time and again.”

Sydney Fish Market CEO Daniel Jarosch said:

“As of today, Sydney can proudly lay claim to the best fish market in the world.

“From watching live auctions, oyster shucking at Sydney Seafood School to tasting your way through its multitude of cuisines, the market delivers a multi-layered destination that locals and visitors will want to return to time and again.

“Beyond food and beverage, the market also features a selection of specialty retailers, adding to its dynamic and diverse atmosphere.

“The new Sydney Fish Market is a proud masthead for the Australian seafood industry, showcasing spectacular produce to the world.”

Women and families in the Snowy Monaro are set to benefit from improved access to midwifery continuity of care, with the launch of a Midwifery Group Practice model at Cooma Hospital.

Under the model, women will receive continuity of care from a known primary midwife throughout their pregnancy, labour, birth, and up to two weeks after birth. A dedicated small team of midwives will work alongside local GPs and obstetricians to provide individualised maternity care.

Care following birth will also offer reassurance, breastfeeding support, and early detection of health concerns, helping to improve outcomes and ensure women and families feel confident.

The dedicated four-midwife Cooma MGP team began accepting referrals in late 2025 and is already caring for mums and families. Appointments are available at clinics in Cooma, Bombala and Jindabyne, or in the woman’s home.

The Midwifery Group Practice model is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to increasing access to midwifery continuity of care models across the state, which was supported by a $44.8 million investment in the 2025-28 NSW Budget.

For more information, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/snswlhd/our-services/pregnancy-birth-and-baby

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“The establishment of the Cooma Midwifery Group Practice is the latest in a broader expansion of midwifery continuity of care services across NSW.

“We are strengthening midwifery services across the state, to ensure women can access high quality care closer to home. 

“The newly established care model will give families more choice, and will provide expecting and new mothers with world-class, evidence-based care.”

Member for Monaro Steve Whan:

“This is a major step forward for maternity care in the Monaro. Local families have told us how important it is to have a Midwifery Group Practice model available in our region. I’m delighted to see the Cooma Hospital introducing this important model of care.”

SNSWLHD Chief Executive Margaret Bennett:

“Continuity of care with a known midwife leads to better outcomes for women and babies. We’re proud to offer individualised, evidence-based care that supports women through one of life’s most important journeys.

“This approach also supports our midwives to work to their full scope of practice and ensure safe, coordinated care for every family.”

Olivia Jordan, Registered Midwife with the Cooma Midwifery Group Practice

“Continuity of care models are evidence-based. Women who know their midwife report feeling safer, more informed, and more supported. This relationship improves trust and communication, which is critical during labour and birth.

“I’m passionate about helping women feel supported and confident, and this model is all about teamwork. We’re there for women from the first pregnancy care visit right through to two weeks after birth.”

SYDNEY’S CATCH OF THE DAY AS NEW SYDNEY FISH MARKET OPENS, REELING IN A WIN FOR JOBS, TOURISM AND LOCAL INDUSTRY

Today marks the official opening of the new Sydney Fish Market, delivering a world-class waterfront destination and a major boost for jobs, tourism and the NSW seafood industry.

The redeveloped Sydney icon was designed and commenced by the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, reflecting a long-term vision to modernise NSW’s infrastructure and support economic growth.

The state-of-the-art facility is expected to welcome millions of visitors each year, showcasing the very best of Australian seafood, strengthening Sydney’s reputation as a global food and tourism destination, while supporting local businesses and workers.

Today’s opening marks an exciting new chapter for Sydney and reinforces the importance of having a clear plan to invest in infrastructure that delivers long-term benefits.

NSW Opposition Leader, Kellie Sloane, said the new Sydney Fish Market is a huge win for Sydney and for everyone who loves this iconic institution.

“The Sydney Fish Market plays a big part in the life of our city, particularly around major family celebrations such as Christmas and Easter, and now it finally has the world-class home it deserves,” Ms Sloane said.

“This project was started thanks to the clear vision and ambition of the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, and it is fantastic to see it open its doors today.
 
“Under the Minns Labor Government, NSW’s infrastructure pipeline is running dry, with fewer transformational projects and no credible plan to create jobs, drive tourism or lift productivity across NSW.”

NSW Nationals Leader, Gurmesh Singh, highlighted the importance of the new Sydney Fish Market for small business, tourism and the state’s seafood industry.

“The Sydney Fish Market is a renowned attraction and this upgrade is long overdue,” Mr Singh said.

“Today marks a major step forward for seafood producers and the thousands of locals whose livelihoods are linked to this industry.
“This is a win for small business, a win for tourism and a win for NSW.”
Shadow Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Natalie Ward, noted that the new Fish Market is another example how infrastructure investment can improve a city, grow the economy and provide for the community.

“This is what good infrastructure looks like – creating jobs, backing small business and building something the whole city can be proud of,” Ms Ward said.

“Whether it is Sydney Metro, the Art Gallery expansion, major stadium upgrades, hospital projects across the state, or the new Sydney Fish Market, the NSW Liberals and Nationals invested in infrastructure that made people proud to call New South Wales home.”

The $53 million Gunnedah Hospital redevelopment has reached a significant milestone, with the new acute services building welcoming patients, visitors and staff from Wednesday, 14 January 2026.

The new acute services building will provide enhanced health facilities, including an expanded emergency department, birthing, maternity and inpatient unit, a dedicated ambulance entry and bays, landscaped gardens and courtyards, and new artworks.

Following the completion of construction in late 2025, final preparations have included training and orientation to ensure the new acute services building and staff are ready to continue to deliver high-quality care at the redeveloped hospital.

To assist with the transition, a video has been released to help the community familiarise themselves and navigate their way around. It follows a successful community open day held late last year, where around 200 people toured the new building.

The new building is linked to the existing hospital building, and access will remain the same.

Visitors and patients should use:

• Marquis Street for access to the hospital main entry, inpatient unit, maternity (during business hours), day surgery, physiotherapy, dental and pathology;
• Anzac Parade for access to the emergency department, maternity (after-hours) and medical imaging;

Ambulances will access the new hospital building from Reservoir Street.

A comprehensive relocation plan has been developed in preparation for the coordinated move.

Key information

• Visitation to inpatients is limited on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, as staff move equipment and patients into the new building. Patients and families will be kept informed, and the existing emergency department will remain open during the move to ensure a smooth transition.
• From 8.00am on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, patients are to present to the new emergency department.
• The emergency department car park off Anzac Parade includes a new drop-off/pick-up zone and accessible parking options to enhance access to the new acute services building.
• In addition to the Marquis Street and Anzac Parade carparks, there is off-street parking available on Reservoir Street and Anzac Parade.

The project has been delivered by Health Infrastructure in partnership with Hunter New England Local Health District, with construction works by Richard Crookes Constructions. 

For more information about the Gunnedah Hospital redevelopment, please visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/gunnedah-hospital-redevelopment

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“After visiting the Gunnedah Hospital redevelopment project site in October, I’m excited that staff and the local community now have access to this incredible health facility.

“This first-class health facility will support Gunnedah and surrounding communities now and into the future.

“The new acute services building provides new and enhanced healthcare services, ensuring staff are equipped to continue delivering safe, high-quality care for all patients.”

Labor spokesperson for Tamworth Anthony D’Adam:

“Well done to the staff and project team for their work in ensuring a smooth process leading into the opening of the new hospital building.

“I also thank everyone who participated in the consultation process. Your contributions ensured the new health facility is reflective of the needs and culture of the Gunnedah community.”

Community video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKw4OpRWB20

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to rein in senior executive numbers, with the NSW public service recording a sustained reduction in top-level roles as part of a broader drive for fiscal discipline.

The latest workforce data shows the number of Public Sector Senior Executives has fallen from a peak of 4,217 in June 2023 to 3,865 in July 2025, a reduction of more than 350 roles, or 8.3 per cent across the public service.

The Government is on track to deliver on its election commitment to reduce the number of senior executives by 15% in its first term. Its estimated annual savings from the reduction in senior executives will be greater than $100 million per year.

This reprioritisation means more money can be spent on the frontline essential services that families and households rely on.

It is also a direct contrast to the record of the previous Liberal-National Government which, despite committing to cuts, continually oversaw a massive growth in the number of senior executives.

Between 2020 and 2021 the previous Government added 347 senior executives to the public service and added an additional 365 roles in their last eight months in office. They did this while implementing a wage freeze for essential workers.

The Minns Labor Government’s progress forms part of its broader budget repair program, which includes:

• Reducing expenditure on external contractors and consultants by $450 million 2023-24, and $297 million in 2024-25, ending a culture of overreliance and poor procurement which was slammed by the Auditor-General.
• Reducing gross debt by $11 billion compared to the 2023 Pre-Election Budget Update, saving approximately $500 million per annum in interest expenses.
• Implementing a pay freeze for senior executives and Members of Parliament for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years.
• Keeping expense growth to just 2.6 per cent over the forward estimates, the lowest expense growth of any state.
• Fixing the state’s broken insurance schemes, delivering better outcomes for workers, businesses and the state’s finances.
• On track to deliver a return to surplus with a forecast $1.3 billion surplus in 2027-28, $200 million more than projected at the 2025-26 Budget.

Taking these tough decisions and maintaining fiscal discipline means we can deliver the homes, infrastructure and essential services that communities need, all at once, as part of a single plan.

The strategy is being rewarded by international credit ratings agencies. Last year, Fitch and Moody’s maintained the state’s triple-A credit rating, while S&P Global reaffirmed the state’s AA+ rating, reflecting NSW’s strong economy and credible approach to managing expenditure and debt.

Less money spent on senior executives, consultants and contractors means more investment can be directed towards essential services that families and communities rely on, and a more disciplined NSW Budget.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“We are proud to have ended the Coalition’s spending spree. 

“Less money spent on backroom senior executives, consultants and contractors means more funding for the frontline services that communities need. 

“We’d rather hire more teachers, nurses, paramedics and police than costly consultants and highly-paid executives.” 

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos:

“The former Liberal-National Government made similar commitments on reducing senior executives but instead oversaw a significant increase in top public servants.

“In the last eight months of the previous Liberal-National Government’s term, they added 365 executives to an already bloated headcount, capping off the culture of waste that characterised their 12 years in office.

“These much-needed changes are part of how the Minns Labor Government is delivering the fiscally disciplined reforms needed to build a fairer NSW and repair the mess left by the previous government.”

Essential disaster recovery work is underway on the Bruxner Highway at Mallanganee thanks to a $9.5 million investment from the Albanese and Minns Governments. Funding has been made available under the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

This investment will help to ensure the Bruxner Highway can continue to provide essential access between towns and villages across northern New South Wales.

Transport for NSW will carry out work, which includes repairing and stabilising two downslopes which were damaged in a landslip between Willock Street and Bulmers Road at Mallanganee, about 40km west of Casino.

Work will require the installation of soil nails and micropiles, which are drilled deep into the slope, together with improvements to drains and culverts, which are expected to take about six months to complete.

The funding provision to ‘build back better’ is also under the DRFA, Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.

Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain:

“This investment through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements will help to ensure the Bruxner Highway can continue to provide essential access between towns and villages across northern New South Wales.

“This is important work which will mean the highway will be able to better withstand future storms and flooding.”

NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin:

“The Bruxner Highway is a vital artery in the state’s north, connecting locals, freight and tourists from Ballina to Boggabilla.

“It is also one of the key local roads in my electorate, taking me directly to Tenterfield—a beautiful Tablelands town I proudly represent—and I know every twist and turn of this road.

“We have faced repeated severe weather in recent years, and this work is about more than repairing damage; it’s about strengthening our transport network so communities can recover faster and be better prepared for future events.”

Designs for the $40 million upgrade of Sydney’s iconic Leichhardt Oval have been unveiled and the community is encouraged to have its say on the proposal. 

This planned major upgrade will deliver facilities that meet modern standards so this iconic rugby league venue can continue its almost century long history as a rugby league ground and serving the community as the much-loved home of the West Tigers, as well as junior, community, and club competitions across multiple codes.

The proposed upgrade will transform the venue, known by locals as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, into a modern hub for community events, professional, and grassroots sports and cement its role as the permanent home for men’s and women’s National Rugby League (NRL) fixtures for the next 15 years. 

Planned improvements include: 

• Renovation of the historic western grandstand with new stadium seating.  
• Modern hospitality and media facilities.  
• Four NRL-compliant female-friendly change rooms.  
• A new northern grandstand, replacement of the lower seating bowl.

If given the green light, construction is expected to commence after the 2026 season.   

The $40 million upgrade is being jointly funded with $20 million from the Federal Government, $10 million from the NSW Government and $10 million from Inner West Council. 

The community exhibition is open from Friday, 16 January 2026 until Thursday, 12 February 2026. To have your say on the Leichhardt Oval refurbishment, visit the NSW Planning Portal. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:

“Leichhardt Oval is not just about sport, it’s about the identity of the Inner West.

“It is a place where the faithful can go along and cheer their local sporting team, and this upgrade from all three levels of government will ensure that spirit is preserved.

“Leichhardt Oval was not fit for purpose, these upgrades will make sure that families will be able to enjoy the hallowed ground for generations to come.”

Minister for Sport Anika Wells said:

“Leichhardt Oval is an iconic part of Australia’s sporting and community history, and the upgrade to Leichhardt Oval is about making sure it continues to serve the Inner West for generations to come.

“With designs now released by the New South Wales Government, this is a great opportunity for local residents, sporting groups and fans to provide feedback and help shape the future of this much-loved venue.”

Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek said:

“Leichhardt Oval is one of Sydney’s most loved sporting grounds, and these upgrades will make sure it continues to be for years to come.

“Whether you’re out on the field or cheering from the stands, this upgrade will deliver top quality facilities for everyone to enjoy, including our women’s and girl’s teams.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said: 

“This is a chance for fans and the community to have their say on the upgrade of one of Sydney’s most iconic suburban sports grounds.” 

“Fans have dubbed Leichhardt Oval as the Eighth Wonder of the World and this renewal will cement its status delivering modern facilities which will support its use for both sport and community events for years to come.”

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said: 

“Leichhardt Oval has a rich history, and this upgrade ensures it receives the respect it deserves.

“This is a valuable opportunity for the community to have their say and help shape a fit-for-purpose, state-of-the art venue where players and fans can create new memories for generations to come.”

Member for Summer Hill Jo Haylen said:  

“This long-awaited transformation of Leichhardt Oval is about retaining what we love about the ground, like the hill and the historic Western grandstand, while finally bringing it into the 21st century through a much-needed upgrade, particularly delivering female-friendly facilities.

“Leichhardt Oval is an iconic community asset for the Inner West, so I encourage everyone to have their say about the plans.”

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said:

“After years of fighting to save Leichhardt Oval our plans for the renovation are progressing well.

“I encourage all Wests Tigers and sports fans to make a submission to help us secure the future of the eighth wonder of the world.”