Calls have been made to install a retractable roof on Accor Stadium in Sydney, as rain-affected events have shown the need for covered stadiums. Despite the advantages of having a roof, such as the ability to host more concerts and compete effectively against Melbourne, the cost of installing one is a major hurdle. Estimates for a retractable roof on the 25-year-old stadium range from $150 to $300 million. While there are no current plans to install a roof, calls have been made to revive plans to rebuild or refurbish Accor Stadium, especially with the future Metro West train line providing improved access to Olympic Park.
The previous Coalition government abandoned plans to rebuild or refurbish Accor Stadium in 2018 and 2020, in what became known as the “stadium wars”. However, in 2022, the Coalition allocated $5 million to Venues NSW to prepare a business case for a retractable roof at Stadium Australia. The business case is nearly complete, with Venues NSW chief executive Kerrie Mather highlighting the competitive advantage a roof would provide for NSW in hosting events and concerts. With Melbourne having several stadiums and arenas with operable roofs, a roof on Accor Stadium would help Sydney compete effectively.
Despite the benefits of having a roof on Accor Stadium, the cost remains a major challenge. The federal government’s recent review of goods and services tax distribution has also made the installation of a roof more unlikely, as the NSW budget has taken a significant hit. Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou, who advocates for putting a roof on the stadium, acknowledges the economic constraints and the need for the government to prioritize between “nice-to-have” amenities and essential requirements. With Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium and Rod Laver Arena having retractable roofs, the absence of such facilities in Sydney puts the city at a disadvantage in attracting major events and concerts.
Calls to install a retractable roof on Accor Stadium continue to grow, as the need for a covered stadium in Sydney becomes increasingly apparent. While the cost of installing a roof remains a significant obstacle, the potential benefits in terms of hosting more events and concerts, as well as competing effectively against Melbourne, are clear. With plans to rebuild or refurbish the stadium on hold, the focus now is on the business case for a roof at Stadium Australia. It remains to be seen whether the government will prioritize the installation of a retractable roof amid economic challenges and competing demands for funding in the state budget.
