Perched directly beside the Harbour Bridge with uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the North Sydney Olympic Pool has long been one of the city’s most recognisable swimming spots. Nearly a century old, the harbourside icon has been a regular fixture for lap swimmers, school kids, travellers and locals looking for one of the most scenic places in the city to take a dip. In recent years, the pool has been closed as part of a major redevelopment aimed at restoring the historic facility and upgrading its ageing infrastructure. Since then, the project has undergone a major transformation, with the entire complex rebuilt and modernised while retaining its distinctive heritage charm.
The pool first closed in February 2021 and, although originally budgeted at around $58 million, the project has since seen significant cost increases due to design changes and construction challenges, with the final cost now estimated at about $122 million.
The long-awaited reopening of the pool is now edging closer. Here’s everything you need to know before the popular waterfront site opens to swimmers again.
What’s new at North Sydney Olympic Pool
When the gates swing open, visitors will be treated to a significantly upgraded aquatic complex designed to serve both everyday swimmers and organised sporting events. The redeveloped site retains its famous harbour-facing pools while introducing a range of new facilities aimed at modernising the venue.
Highlights at the snazzy new complex include a leisure pool, warm-water therapy spa and sauna, as well as improved family and accessible change rooms, alongside the existing 50-metre Olympic pool and 25-metre pool. The grandstand has also been rebuilt and expanded, with upgraded gym and health facilities, including dedicated fitness and exercise spaces framed by turquoise harbour views.
Preserving the pool’s historic elements is a key focus of the redevelopment. Art Deco features, including the harbour wall, sundeck and original stair tower, have been carefully retained as part of the rebuild. The layout of the complex has also been reworked to improve pedestrian access, with new pathways, ramps and lifts connecting the different areas of the site. The reconstructed grandstand will seat close to 1,000 spectators, allowing the venue to once again host major swimming events and community competitions.
When will North Sydney Olympic Pool reopen?
The long-awaited reopening of North Sydney Olympic Pool is currently expected around mid-2026. Before swimmers can return, the complex must move through a commissioning phase where systems across the facility are tested and final safety checks are carried out. The pools have already begun filling as part of this process, with the final inspections and operational preparations now underway ahead of the official reopening.
Entry fees at North Sydney Olympic Pool
Casual entry is expected to cost around $11 for adults, according to draft fees released by North Sydney Council. The proposed price reflects the cost of operating the newly redeveloped complex, and the range of upgraded facilities. The fees are currently on public exhibition, with a final decision to be made by council before the pool officially reopens.
Where is North Sydney Olympic Pool?
North Sydney Olympic Pool is located at Milsons Point, directly beside the Harbour Bridge on the northern side of Sydney Harbour. The waterfront location places the facility just a short walk from Milsons Point Station, making it easily accessible by train, ferry or a quick trip over the bridge from the CBD.
Read more about the redevelopment here.
