A new landmark where Sydney meets the sea
Sydney Fish Market, one of the world’s largest working fish markets, has been transformed into a premier destination for seafood, dining and culture.
RLB’s cost management and commercial advice helped deliver this complex public infrastructure project within an active harbour environment and alongside a live market operation.
By Stephen Mee
Director, RLB in New South Wales
Part marketplace, part civic living room, the new Sydney Fish Market is the city’s next great place to gather.
Set on the edge of Blackwattle Bay, the building reimagines the waterfront experience with a sweeping wave-shaped roof, patterned like fish scales that references Sydney’s fishing heritage. Now the biggest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere, the building retains its gritty spirit while stepping confidently into global company.
Designed by 3XN GXN Architects, in association with BVN Architecture and ASPECT Studios, the project hands back inaccessible foreshore – more than 6,000 square metres of it – to the city. With enhanced auction facilities, new wharves and a lively market hall, it elevates a beloved institution into a world-class cultural and culinary hub.
Spanning more than 64,000 square metres of gross floor area, the development brings together a state-of-the-art fish auction hall, retail and dining experiences, a fish cooking school, restaurant facilities and integrated car parking within a single landmark destination.
FACTS AND FIGURES
Project: Sydney Fish Market
Location: Sydney, Australia
Client: Infrastructure NSW
Size: 64,000m² gross floor area
Social value: A$300 million social and economic impact
“RLB supported the NSW Government’s vision by bringing disciplined cost management and commercial advice to one of the state’s most complex social infrastructure projects.”
“At RLB, we’re proud to contribute to a project that safeguards a Sydney institution while creating a vibrant new civic space. This is progress you can stand on: public realm, community benefit and cultural legacy brought to life with integrity.”
Rigorous cost planning
RLB supported the NSW Government’s vision by bringing disciplined cost management and commercial advice to one of the state’s most complex social infrastructure projects.
With its challenging marine environment, distinctive roof geometry and significant public realm ambition, the development required rigorous cost planning to balance design excellence with long-term value. Our approach enabled the project team to retain the authentic market experience while introducing modern functionality.
Delivered on a complex harbour site, the project required careful marine works, wharf planning, and significant piling and concrete execution to establish the 100m x 200m structure.
Our cost insights ensured operational resilience, future flexibility and long-term value, while maintaining live market operations at the existing Pyrmont site throughout construction.
In line with RLB’s commitment to sustainability, the building has achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating through low-carbon materials, reduced construction emissions, water recycling, and efficient ventilation systems that save 35% in operational energy demand.
Delivering social value
Backed by a A$750 million NSW Government investment, Sydney Fish Market’s estimated annual economic and social impact exceeds A$300 million. The project will act as a catalyst for the renewal of Blackwattle Bay, expanding long-term public access to Sydney’s waterfront.
The new market honours the living stories of the Gadigal and neighbouring saltwater clans, with five permanent public art installations celebrating traditional fishing practices, industrial heritage and contemporary cultural expression. By connecting people with place, history and each other, the project strengthens community bonds.
At RLB, we’re proud to contribute to a project that safeguards a Sydney institution while creating a vibrant new civic space. This is progress you can stand on: public realm, community benefit and cultural legacy brought to life with integrity.
About the author
Stephen Mee
Stephen Mee is a Director of RLB in New South Wales, having previously served as Global Board Chair and as a Director on both the Global and Oceania Boards.
A Fellow of the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Stephen joined RLB in 1983 and specialises in strategic procurement, contract solutions, construction cost planning, cost management, and financial institution reporting and monitoring.
In 2024, he was honoured with a Legacy Leadership Award from the Property Council of Australia, recognising a respected individual who has made a significant and lasting contribution to prosperity, jobs and strong communities.
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