Parramatta locks in funds for $276 million Riverside Theatres overhaul

City of Parramatta councillors have unanimously voted to underwrite the remaining $93 million funding shortfall for the long-awaited Riverside Theatres redevelopment, clearing the way for Western Sydney’s flagship arts venue to become a Broadway-ready destination.

A bigger, world-class stage

The $276 million project will more than double capacity to 2,780 seats and deliver:

• a new 1,500-seat lyric theatre designed for major West End and Broadway tours

• a refurbished 760-seat Riverside Playhouse

• a 420-seat black-box drama theatre

• an 80-seat digital studio and cinema

• landscaped public plazas along the Parramatta River

How the money stacks up

Council has already committed $140 million, partly funded by the sale of the adjoining Riverside carpark, while the NSW Government has pledged $40 million. The extra $93 million will be raised through developer contributions, property reserves, third-party grants and philanthropic donations, ensuring the redevelopment proceeds even if a $50 million federal arts grant application is unsuccessful.

Calls for more help from Canberra

Independent councillor Kellie Darley, absent from the vote, described the prospect of further council spending as “unacceptable” and urged state and federal governments, as well as CBD businesses set to benefit from increased foot traffic, to chip in. Parramatta federal MP Andrew Charlton said he supported the project’s goals but declined to comment on the funding process.

Economic payoff for Western Sydney

Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said the revitalised complex will anchor Parramatta’s growing 24-hour economy, attracting about 400,000 patrons each year, generating construction and hospitality jobs, and finally giving Western Sydney a venue to rival the city’s traditional theatre district. Business Western Sydney executive director David Borger welcomed the decision, saying a modern working theatre is “critical” to the city’s cultural and commercial future.

What happens next

Concept designs by Cox Architecture and 3XN Architects have already been unveiled. With funding now secured, detailed design work will accelerate, with construction expected to peak in 2026–27 and the curtain to rise on the new Riverside soon after.