In December 2012, following a rigorous evaluation process, Destination Sydney was selected as the preferred consortia to partner with the NSW Government to design, build, maintain and operate the new facilities.

Architect: OMA, HASSELL, Populous
Client: Lend Lease PM+C

The preferred plan will deliver:

The largest exhibition space in Australia at 40,000 sqm - the equivalent of five football fields. It includes 35,000 sqm of dedicated space and a further 5,000 sqm of flexible space.
The biggest total meeting room space in Australia at 8,000 sqm across more than 40 rooms, linked to both convention and exhibition areas
The biggest Australian convention hall capacity - known as plenary space - able to accommodate more than 12,000 people over four different areas, allowing multiple events to take place at the same time
Sydney's largest ballroom, for at least 2,000 people - almost double the current capacity
A red carpet, premium entertainment facility with a capacity of at least 8,000 people, suitable for both entertainment events and 'mega' conferences
State-of-the-art technology throughout, such as free wireless connectivity across all facilities and 10 free Wi-Fi hot spots in the public open space
Up to 900 hotel rooms in a hotel complex at the northern end of the precinct
Renewed and upgraded public domain that has been increased by a hectare, including an outdoor event space for up to 25,000 people at an expanded Tumbalong Park.
A new neighbourhood at the southern end of the precinct, called The Haymarket, home to high-tech businesses, apartments, student accommodation, shops, cafes and restaurants.
Improved pedestrian connections drawing people between Central, Chinatown and Cockle Bay Wharf as well as east-west between Ultimo/Pyrmont and the city. Read Less