The NSW Government will open a tender process for the long-term lease at the Moore Park precinct, with the aim being to drive its allure as a destination for world-class live performances and public events.

The government is seeking proposals that will deliver new creative venues, such as an indoor space that can host audiences up to 20,000 people.

The Entertainment Quarter is considered one of Sydney’s key entertainment and sports precincts, but is widely regarded as being underutilised despite its prime location between Centennial Park, SCG and Allianz Stadium, and its proximity to the CBD via light rail.

“The Entertainment Quarter is in one of Australia’s best entertainment precincts, however it is falling far short of meeting its full potential,” says NSW Premier Chris Minns.

“We want to turn it into a thriving world-class precinct, full of dining and entertainment options, complete with a new venue that can host between 15,000 and 20,000 people for live music and public events.

“From cutting through red tape that has decimated Sydney’s nightlife to getting visitors and entertainment back into the city with projects such as this, we’re focused on turning Sydney into the best entertainment destination in the world.”

The tender process will seek bids that deliver on key precinct and infrastructure upgrades, and support increased use of the precinct, while supporting better integration with the broader sports and entertainment precinct and parklands.

“The Entertainment Quarter’s potential currently outweighs its offerings,” says NSW Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham.

“In short, we want more entertainment in this precinct, more people visiting and much more activation of what has always been a special place in Sydney, right back to the days of the Showgrounds and the heyday of Hordern Pavilion.

“The creation of a live performance area that can host 15,000 to 20,000 people is central to this vision, particularly as the Minns Labor Government pursues its agenda to grow live music back from the brink.”