NSW Takes Wraps Off ‘Bold Vision’ for Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park has languished for more than two decades since its glory days, but a bold new masterplan aims to transform it into one of the city’s most vibrant urban precincts.

Since hosting the 2000 Olympics, the area has seen little use outside major events. That will change, the state said, under the NSW Government’s Master Plan 2050, which outlines a vision for a bustling urban neighbourhood.

The plan aims to increase the current population from 5250 to more than 30,000 in the next 25 years, with the addition of 10,000 homes designed to cater to families, essential workers and downsizers.

The Property Council of Australia executive director NSW Anita Hugo welcomed the plan, saying increased housing supply was essential for affordability and accessibility in the ongoing housing crisis.

“This masterplan has the potential to transform Sydney Olympic Park into a vibrant, mixed-use precinct that can help address Sydney’s growing housing emergency,” she said.

“Sydney Olympic Park is well-placed to deliver more homes close to jobs, transport and services.

“It could be a critical step toward creating a balanced community with diverse housing options, public spaces, and facilities to meet the demands of future residents.”

▲ The new plan outlines a vision for a bustling urban neighbourhood.

To create a “live, work and play” environment, the plan proposes a mix of high-density apartments near transport hubs, mid-rise residences and some lower-density homes near parklands.

This development will be complemented by new retail centres, restaurants and entertainment options to bring year-round activity to the area, according to the masterplan.

A high street with outdoor shops, new bars, and eateries is planned for near the Metro station.

This will include a cultural centre—inspired by Melbourne’s Federation Square, known for its mix of galleries, events, and open public spaces—to host arts and community events.

▲ The population will grow to more than 30,000 in the next 25 years.

For green space, one of the area’s largest car parks will be reclaimed as parklands, creating spaces for “outdoor adventures” with sports fields, playgrounds, and discovery trails along nearby water corridors.

Inspired by the transformation of Cockatoo Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard, the Minns government plans to convert the Newington Armory—a historic naval depot on the Parramatta River—into a tourist destination featuring markets, festivals and camping experiences.

With the increased population and new amenities, Sydney Olympic Park will be designed to be “car-lite”, prioritising pedestrian pathways, dedicated cycling lanes and public transport through the Metro and Parramatta Light Rail.

▲ A vibrant high street is planned for near the Metro station.

The Master Plan 2050, open for public consultation until November 25, also prioritises employment growth with plans to create up to 32,000 jobs within the precinct.

NSW planning minister Paul Scully said it was “an exciting new stage” in the park’s evolution, laying the groundwork for decades of development.

However, residents of nearby Wentworth Point—home to about 15,000 people in high-rise apartments—have raised concerns.

Many reportedly feel like “second-class citizens” due to the absence of a public park and the delayed light rail service, despite the area’s density.