NSW Government Launches Bays West International Design Competition
The New South Wales Government has initiated a global design contest for the 77-hectare Bays West area located near Sydney's central business district. This two-phase competition seeks to establish a design-focused Urban Framework for both the White Bay Power Station and Glebe Island, potentially accommodating up to 8,500 residences, with a minimum of 10 percent designated as affordable housing, alongside parks, public waterfront access, and pathways for walking and cycling. A new Metro station is scheduled to open in 2032. The first stage calls for Expressions of Interest, while the second stage will be a paid, invitation-only round offering AUD 200,000 to shortlisted teams. Submissions for Expressions of Interest will be accepted from July 28, 2026, to August 21, 2026. Premier Chris Minns described it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Key facts
- Competition launched by NSW Government for Bays West precinct
- 77-hectare site includes White Bay Power Station and Glebe Island
- Up to 8,500 homes planned, with at least 10% affordable and essential worker housing
- New Metro station scheduled to open in 2032
- Two-stage competition: open EOI then paid invitation-only phase
- Shortlisted teams receive AUD 200,000 for Stage 2
- International entrants must partner with Australian firms
- Design Advisory Panel chaired by Abbie Galvin
Entities
Artists
- Walter Hood
Institutions
- New South Wales Government
- Bays West Delivery Authority
- Government Architect NSW
- Hood Design Studio
- University of California, Berkeley
- Australian Institute of Architects
- National Aboriginal Design Agency
- Placemaking NSW
- Roads and Maritime Services NSW
- Inner West Council
Locations
- Sydney
- Australia
- White Bay Power Station
- Glebe Island
- Bays West precinct
- Rozelle Bay
- Anzac Bridge