Henson Park Unveils $20 Million Transformation, Securing Sporting Legacy
Sydney's iconic Henson Park has officially emerged from a significant $20 million redevelopment, a project designed to safeguard its future as a premier sporting venue for generations of athletes and fans. This comprehensive upgrade, spearheaded by the Inner West Council, has breathed new life into the beloved grounds, enhancing facilities for both grassroots and elite levels of sport, with a particular focus on supporting women in football.
A New Era for Player Facilities
The revitalisation project saw its first stage completed last year, focusing on critical upgrades to the historic King George V Grandstand and the addition of four much-needed female-friendly change rooms. These improvements addressed long-standing deficiencies, as the original facilities, constructed for the 1938 Empire Games, were no longer fit for purpose, especially concerning inclusivity for female athletes.
The second stage of the redevelopment delivers a state-of-the-art multipurpose building. This new facility boasts modern public amenities, a fully equipped canteen, dedicated coaches' boxes, and advanced media broadcast capabilities. These additions are poised to significantly elevate the game-day experience for everyone involved – from players and officials to media personnel and enthusiastic fans.
Championing Women in Sport and Community Hub
Henson Park is rapidly becoming a vital hub for women's football, catering to players from grassroots beginnings to elite competitions. The new facilities are instrumental in this evolution, ensuring that the venue can adequately support the growing participation and profile of women in sport. Simultaneously, the park continues its proud tradition as the home of the mighty Newtown Jets, a club deeply embedded in the local sporting culture.
The enhanced broadcast facilities mean that top-flight AFL and rugby league matches can now be streamed and televised directly from Henson Park, further amplifying its reach and importance within the Australian sporting landscape. This project represents a significant collaborative effort, jointly funded by the Inner West Council and NSW AFL, with crucial grant funding secured from both the Federal and NSW governments.
Key Improvements at Henson Park Include:
- Grandstand Enhancements: Repairs to the first-floor seating area and accessibility upgrades, including lift access to the upper levels.
- Player Amenities Upgrade: Expanded and improved player facilities, featuring new female-friendly change areas, accessible toilets, and increased storage for sporting equipment.
- New Multipurpose Building: A modern structure at the rear of the grandstand housing additional female-friendly change rooms, public toilets, a gym, and a community function space.
- Public Accessibility: Brand-new accessible public toilets and baby change facilities, ensuring the park is welcoming to all members of the community.
- Broadcast Capabilities: State-of-the-art coaches' boxes and media broadcast facilities, enabling high-quality coverage of sporting events.
A Venue for All Generations
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne expressed his enthusiasm for the completed project, stating, "Henson Park is the heart and soul of Inner West sport, and these major upgrades for players and fans will keep it that way. Anyone who has spent an afternoon at Henson cheering on the Jets, the Giants or the Swans knows what a unique and unforgettable experience it is, and now we've made that experience even better."
Mayor Byrne highlighted the significance of the upgrades, noting that they are a primary reason for the NRL's return to Henson Park for the first time in 36 years. The Sharks will take on the Eels in an NRL Pre-season Challenge match, marking a momentous occasion for the venue. "This investment secures Henson Park as a premier sporting ground and a permanent home for the mighty Newtown Jets, as well as the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants AFLW teams," he added.
Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the Minns Labor Government's commitment to supporting community sporting facilities. "Henson Park is for the people. From grassroots to the elite level, our sporting facilities should accommodate all members of our community," Haylen stated. "Whether it's the Newtown Jets, the Sydney Swans, or the Summer Beer Footy and Food Festival, these upgraded facilities will ensure we can continue to host incredible events at Henson Park, the beating heart of Inner West sport."
Official Opening and Future Events
The official opening of the revitalised Henson Park is set to coincide with the Newtown Jets and Cronulla Sharks trial match on Sunday, February 15, 2026. This event promises to be a celebration of the park's rich history and its bright future, with tickets available for purchase online or at the gate. The redevelopment ensures that Henson Park will remain a cherished and vital community asset for decades to come, fostering sporting excellence and community engagement.
