The long-awaited new Sydney Fish Market has officially opened its doors to the public, marking a significant milestone for Australia's seafood industry.

As the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere and the third-largest in the world, the new precinct recreates one of Sydney's iconic institutions as a world-class destination for seafood, dining and community.

Set on Blackwattle Bay and home to 42 retailers and 19 seafood wholesalers, the new Sydney Fish Market spans more than 26,000 square metres and features a tantalising mix of fresh produce, dining and retail, celebrating Australian seafood and global cuisines.

Seafood trading on the first morning kicked off with an auction where the $57,000 proceeds were donated to OceanWatch Australia, a national not-for-profit environmental organisation dedicated to advancing sustainability in the Australian seafood industry by protecting marine habitats, improving water quality, reducing impacts and promoting sustainable practices.

Sydney Fish Market chief commercial officer, Adam Mourad, said the new market preserved the authenticity of the old Sydney Fish Market, while significantly improving the environment for both trade and public customers. "It also opens up the working market to the public, giving people a view of the live auctions and daily operations in a way that has never been possible before," he said. 

Delivered by the New South Wales Government as a state-significant infrastructure project and constructed by Multiplex, the new $836 million Sydney Fish Market represents a major investment in Sydney's visitor economy and Australia's seafood industry.

The Sydney Fish Market has always been something of an institution in the harbour city. In various forms it has evolved from humble beginnings in the 19th century to become a significant cultural and economic centre in Sydney, known for its vibrant seafood trade and culinary offerings.

The history of the Sydney Fish Market dates back to 1871, when the first formal fish market was established in the inner-city suburb of Woolloomooloo. This market was created in response to the growing population and the need for a regulated fish trade. It was housed in a purpose-built building and expanded over time to accommodate the increasing demand for seafood. By 1893, it covered an entire city block.

Over the next 70 years other fish markets sprang up and at one stage the city had three of them. Fierce competition ensued until, in 1966, the Sydney Fish Market relocated to Pyrmont, where it was developed into a modern facility. This new site allowed for improved infrastructure and services, including a wholesale fish market, retail outlets, and dining options. It remained at this site until the recent reopening at its new location at Blackwattle Bay, Glebe. 

The Sydney Fish Market features state-of-the-art systems, cutting-edge facilities and a purpose-built design that supports a fully operational wholesale and retail hub, built to serve generations of seafood lovers. A destination in its own right, it's set to become one of Australia's must-visit attractions, ready to welcome up to six million visitors a year and deliver a major boost to Sydney's tourism economy and jobs sector.

Designed by 3XN GXN Architects, in association with BVN Architecture and ASPECT Studios, the market features a globally significant waterfront building with expansive public spaces and purpose-built facilities for both industry operations and public access. 

Beyond the huge variety of fresh and cooked seafood, visitors can mingle with a range of innovative retailers offering fresh produce, deli goods, baked items, gelato and even Australia's first olive oil concept store.

Immersive experiences include behind the-scenes tours, masterclasses at Sydney Seafood School, and cultural storytelling that celebrates First Nations fishing traditions.

With extended trading hours from 7:00am to 10:00pm on weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) and until midnight on weekends (Friday and Saturday), the market invites locals and visitors alike to experience Sydney's seafood culture throughout the day and into the night. 

Of course, there's more to Sydney than the fish market so to get the most out of your trip take a look here at what else is on offer.

More information:

Home - Sydney Fish Market

Photos supplied courtesy of Sydney Fish Market