Crowds turned away as Sydney’s $830 million fish market finally opens

Published: January 19, 2026

Daily London

Crowds have had to be turned away as the new Sydney Fish Market finally opened its doors today.

Lines of people were seen snaking out the door for the opening of the city’s new attraction, which cost $836 million to build.

People have reportedly been told they must wait in line to get into the building – even if they have a booking at one of the restaurants – or come back later when the crowds have died down.

People were turned away as they looked to head to the new Sydney Fish Market on opening day. (Dominic Lorrimer)

It is now the largest seafood market in the Southern Hemisphere, with 42 retailers and 19 seafood wholesalers, although its opening has been delayed by many years.

Proposed in 2018, it was supposed to open in 2023 with a price tag of $250 million.

The markets are expected to attract 6 million visitors a year. (Dominic Lorrimer)

Around six million people are expected to visit the market each year, with NSW Premier Chris Minns saying he believed it would appeal to everyone.

“While foodies will travel far and wide, I think it’s really important that this market will still cater for local families who just want to come down with the kids to have some fish and chips on a hot summer afternoon,” he said.

People at the opening of the new Sydney Fish Market in Sydney. (Dominic Lorrimer)

“Whether you’re coming here for caviar, or crab sticks, or some kind of exotic platter, this place will have something for everybody.”

The building sits on Blackwattle Bay next to the old Sydney Fish Market in Glebe.

The trading hours for the general public will be 7am to 10pm on weekdays, extending to midnight on Friday and Saturday.