Australia’s most recognisable and most visited building, the Sydney Opera House, will undergo its single biggest upgrade since it opened 43 years ago.

Working designs released today reveal that key points of visitor interaction, from buying a ticket to seeing a performance, will receive a comprehensive update to equip the Opera House for the 21^st century.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant said this is a historic project that the NSW Government is honoured to support with $202 million from its Cultural Infrastructure Fund. 

“The Sydney Opera House has played an important role in our nation’s history and embarking on these renewal projects will ensure that it continues to be relevant for generations to come,” Mr Grant said. 

“From pedestrianising the under-used space beneath the Monumental Steps to finally bringing the function centre inside the building envelope and eliminating the need for the large external marquee, the Opera House will change for the better.

“For the first time children will have a dedicated space at the Opera House – a new Creative Learning Centre which will provide a unique education experience for our future generations.”  

Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM said the Opera House is a masterpiece of human creative genius that belongs to everyone and is central to our identity as Australians.

“These renewal projects are designed to ensure the Opera House continues to evolve, welcoming and inspiring people in as many ways as possible, while conserving and respecting our heritage,” Ms Herron said.    

“The Opera House has worked incredibly hard for us all and it is wonderful that, thanks to our greatest supporter, the NSW Government, the upgrades and improvements it needs are now under way.”