A new era for Haymarket unfolds with urban renewal

In the heart of Haymarket, Sydney’s Chinatown and Thaitown are undergoing a vibrant transformation. With upgrade works under way and a calendar of cultural events ahead, this historic precinct is buzzing with fresh energy.

Reviving the ceremonial gates

One of Haymarket’s most cherished features, the ceremonial gates at the entrance to Dixon Street, have been lovingly restored. These gates, which have stood proudly since 1980, are adorned with intricate tiles and flanked by majestic granite lions, embodying the cultural significance of Chinatown.

We've upgraded the decorative timber panels, replaced the ceramic roof tiles and deteriorated concrete lions with granite lions. The gates are a treasured part of Haymarket, and a celebration of the Chinese community's roots in Sydney.

This project is part of broader improvements to Dixon Street, including new creative lighting and seating, paving upgrades and cultural motifs designed to share Chinatown stories. These works are expected to be completed in early 2026.

Improving public spaces

A range of public domain projects are part of a multimillion dollar vision to improve streets and public spaces, shopfronts, parks and lighting. They include:

• The transformation of George Street south
• Recent paving upgrade on Goulburn Street
• Planned Ultimo Road improvements. Works include an expanded footpath for outdoor dining and events, new street trees, dedicated bike lane and street calming. Works are expected to be completed by 2026.
• Trial projects to revitalise Belmore Park and upgrade Campbell Street to celebrate Thaitown.
  

  

Championing local businesses

Supporting Haymarket’s vibrant economy is an important focus of our revitalisation work. A new grant is helping Dixon Street retailers join in on the journey. Our Dixon Street improvement grant funds building façade and shopfront enhancements. This grant aims to bring the artistry of food preparation onto the street, increase neon signs and enhance the area's visual appeal. We're offering up to $60,000 matched funding for 3 years, totalling $1.2 million.

Our dedicated precinct coordinator for Haymarket plays a vital role in helping local businesses and community groups to work together to create even more opportunities for growth and success in the area.

Injecting energy into the streets

From our annual Sydney Lunar Festival and exhibitions at the 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art to yearly fixtures like Vivid and SXSW, a great diversity of events bring cultural celebrations and new visitors to the precinct. 2025 highlights included:

• Sydney Lunar Festival is one of our largest major event celebrations, brought outdoor festivities, dragon boat races, art installations, lanterns, cultural performances and lion dancing to the city each year. From 29 January to 16 February the celebrations returned for the Year of the Snake, finding their focus in Chinatown.

• Neon Playground returned in 15 March to 16 April 2025. Known for its stunning light installations and interactive art, this event was supported by a $200,000 City of Sydney precinct activation grant and presented by the Haymarket Alliance.

• A Paddy's Market upgrade has introduced bars and dine-in eateries alongside produce stalls at Hay Street Market bringing even more reasons to explore this diverse culinary hub.

The revival of Haymarket's energy, culture, and community is well underway, bringing together all the elements that make this neighbourhood so special.

For the latest events and activities in Haymarket, visit What’s On.