One of Sydney Harbour’s most ambitious projects, the new Sydney Fish Market, has reached practical completion with the official handover to Sydney Fish Market Pty Ltd, paving the way for final retail fit-outs and operations ahead of its opening on January 19, 2026.
The project, valued at approximately $750 million, is a major milestone showcasing world-class architectural and engineering innovation on the harbour foreshore.
The structure stands on 481 marine piles, supported by 6,000 tonnes of steel reinforcement and features a striking roof made up of over 400 roof cassettes and 594 glulam timber beams transported by barge.
This roof, the largest glulam timber roof in the Southern Hemisphere, incorporates solar panels for energy generation, rainwater recycling features, and multi-coloured LED lighting for events.
Infrastructure NSW Chief Executive Tom Gellibrand highlighted the significance, stating: “Practical completion of the new Sydney Fish Market is a major milestone for the project team, and the people of Sydney.
“It also marks the handing over the keys to Sydney Fish Market for them to take custodianship of the building.
“While the new Sydney Fish Market has had its fair share of challenges, we are all now looking forward to 19 January next year when it’s open for business.”
Gellibrand labelled the new Sydney Fish Market building as an architectural marvel that will serve as a major attraction for tourists and a vibrant gathering place where Sydneysiders and visitors can experience the city’s newest food offerings on the scenic harbour foreshore.
He further explained that the new market is just the beginning of a larger renewal vision for the Blackwattle Bay precinct, which includes plans for new residential housing, a continuous harbourside boardwalk, and a newly created one-hectare park surrounding the southern pylon of the Anzac Bridge, enhancing the area’s connectivity and public amenities.
The new facility, designed by 3XN/GXN Architects in association with BVN and Aspect Studios, doubles the retail space of the existing market and offers a vibrant mix of local seafood traders, specialty food retailers, and diverse dining options ranging from casual takeaway to premium waterfront restaurants.
The project delivered significant economic and environmental benefits, creating over 700 construction jobs and supporting 700 ongoing roles.
Approximately $670 million in contracts were awarded to Australian businesses, underpinning the local economy.
Multiplex ACT/NSW Regional Managing Director David Ghannoum highlighted the technical challenges overcome during construction, including the creation of a watertight, hydrostatic basement car park four metres below sea level in Blackwattle Bay and the installation of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest glulam timber roof.
Ghannoum noted the project’s strong focus on sustainability, with the use of HVO100 renewable diesel in tower cranes and a partnership with Seabin to enhance the marine environment.
The new Sydney Fish Market promises to be a landmark destination that combines architectural brilliance, sustainability, cultural heritage, and vibrant seafood experiences on Sydney Harbour’s foreshore, positioning itself as a major drawcard for domestic and international visitors alike.
