The NSW Government has today announced a $17.9 million upgrade to Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink, a major community and sporting facility that will deliver a world-class ice sports venue in the heart of Western Sydney.
The new facility is expected to be completed in 2026 and will support the return of ice sports and community skating to Canterbury, with the upgraded infrastructure paving the way for state and national level events.
The redevelopment will see significant improvements made to the site, including:
- Five multipurpose/change rooms
- New skate hire facilities with storage for 600 pairs of skates, seating and lockers
- A new concrete ice floor and barrier system
- Upgraded spectator seating areas
- A new roof structure fitted with solar panels
The NSW Government is contributing $17.7 million and an additional $200,000 coming from co-contributions.
The Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink has long been a much-loved community asset, and the upgrades will ensure that it continues to serve the region for generations to come.
The project has already completed site disconnection works from the neighbouring aquatic centre, held stakeholder and community consultation sessions, appointed consultants, and submitted a development application to Canterbury-Bankstown Council.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
"The Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink will once again be a place where the community can come together, whether it's to train, to learn, or to support local and elite athletes.
"This upgrade is about creating a vibrant, modern space that reflects the energy and growth of Western Sydney."
Chair of Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink Alex Allan said:
"When we reopen, this will be one of only two Olympic-sized rinks in Sydney - and the only rink run by a not-for-profit cooperative.
"This upgrade will keep ice sports alive, grow our community, and inspire the next generation of skaters."
Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:
"This is another huge milestone in the journey to get this wonderful facility up and running again.
"Canterbury locals have been calling for this upgrade and today's announcement shows that we're listening and delivering. This is about building modern infrastructure that reflects the energy and potential of our area.
"This ice rink has always been a special part of our community. It's a place where kids have learned to skate, teams have trained, and families have come together. I'm proud to see this investment delivering the future our local community deserves."
"It is vital south-west Sydney has ice skating facilities available so that more athletes can have the opportunity to chase their Olympic dream."
Member for Strathfield Jason Yat-Sen Li said:
"Canterbury Ice Rink is an important, greatly loved facility for residents in my community, including local schools, skaters and ice-hockey players, and those who just want to have fun on the ice.
"It is also a facility that has given those who experience mental or physical challenges a place where they can be themselves. We are delighted to be able to save this critical piece of sport and community infrastructure."
Member for East Hills Kylie Wilkinson said:
"I'm delighted to see progress being made towards the reopening of the Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink.
"I grew up learning to skate at this rink, so it's wonderful to see the NSW Government investing in much-needed upgrades.
"Now, my grandchildren will get to enjoy the same hours of fun on the ice that I did as a child, and it's great to know the rink will continue to nurture Australian talent for generations to come."
