Media release
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne
The $20 million renovation of Henson Park is now complete, securing the future of one of Sydney's most iconic sporting venues for generations to come.
Last year, the first stage of works for the project delivered a much-needed upgrade to the King George V Grandstand and four new female friendly change rooms.
The King George V Grandstand and change rooms were in dire need of an upgrade as they were constructed for the 1938 Empire Games. As a result, the player facilities were not fit for purpose or very female-friendly.
Now, in this second stage Council has delivered a new multipurpose building with public amenities, a canteen, coaches' boxes and media broadcast facilities.
These brand-new extra facilities will elevate the game-day experience for players, officials, media and fans at what is fast becoming a hub for women's football from grassroots to elite players and continues to be the home of the mighty Newtown Jets.
These new facilities will allow top flight AFL and rugby league to be broadcast.
This project is jointly funded by Inner West Council and NSW AFL with grant funding from both the Federal and NSW governments.
Improvements to Henson Park include:
- An improved grandstand including repairs to the first-floor seating area, and accessibility upgrades to the upper levels with lift access
- Updated player amenities with female-friendly change areas, accessible toilets and increased storage areas for sporting equipment
- A new multi-purpose building at the rear of the grandstand with female-friendly change rooms, toilets, gym and community function space
- Accessible public toilets and baby change facilities
- Modern coaches' boxes and broadcast facilities
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said this renovation ensures this iconic community asset can be enjoyed by our community for decades to come.
"Henson Park is the heart and soul of Inner West sport, and these major upgrades for players and fans will keep it that way," Mayor Byrne said.
"Anyone who has spent an afternoon at Henson cheering on the Jets, the Giants or the Swans knows what a unique and unforgettable experience it is and now we've made that experience even better.
"The completion of these much-needed new facilities is a major reason why the NRL is returning to Henson Park for the first time in 36 years this Sunday when the Sharks take on the Eels in the NRL Pre-season Challenge.
"This investment secures Henson Park as a premier sporting ground and a permanent home for the mighty Newtown Jets, as well as the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants AFLW teams."
Member for Summer Hill Jo Haylen said:
"the Minns Labor Government investment reflects its dedication to supporting community sporting facilities.
"Henson Park is for the people. From grassroots to the elite level, our sporting facilities should accommodate all members of our community.
"Whether it's the Newtown Jets, the Sydney Swans, or the Summer Beer Footy and Food Festival, these upgraded facilities will ensure we can continue to host incredible events at Henson Park, the beating heart of Inner West sport."
The Henson Park redevelopment will be officially opened this Sunday 15 February 2026 with players and fans at the Newtown Jets and Cronulla Sharks trial matches.
Tickets are required for game day and can be purchased online or at the gate.
