First New Catholic Cathedral In Over A Century Proposed For Sydney

Plans for a new Catholic cathedral in Sydney have been announced, marking what architects describe as the first purpose-built Roman Catholic cathedral in Australia in more than a century.

London-based practice Níall McLaughlin Architects has been selected to design the project, which will form part of a 7.7-hectare precinct in Waitara on Sydney’s north shore. The firm is working with local practice Hayball as executive architect.

The development will serve the Diocese of Broken Bay, which encompasses 26 parishes across the Central Coast, Northern Beaches and North Shore, and supports a Catholic population of about 250,000 people.

In addition to the cathedral, the precinct is planned to include education facilities, community services, a parish hall, pastoral centre, diocesan offices and residences for clergy. A forecourt with a café and bookshop is also proposed.

Archbishop Anthony Randazzo told ArchitectureAU that the project would function as a central hub for the diocese. “The Cathedral Precinct is a home for faith, a place for community, and a commitment to the faithful of today and for future generations,” he said.

He added: “The vision for the Precinct, and its design will represent a visible and living heart for diocesan life, where worship, formation, pastoral care, outreach, and administration come together in service of Commission, Community, and the Common Good.”

Níall McLaughlin, whose practice was selected through an invited international process, said the project aims to create a long-term civic and spiritual landmark. “We are delighted to work on this significant project to help create an enduring spiritual, civic, and cultural precinct that places the faithful at its centre,” he said.

Design concepts draw on the surrounding landscape, including references to the Hawkesbury River and local sandstone formations. Plans include the use of “responsible, sustainable materials” and the retention of an existing blue gum forest, alongside rooftop gardens intended to support biodiversity.

According to project statements, the precinct is intended to operate as an integrated centre of Catholic life, incorporating education and community uses alongside worship.

The proposal is expected to be lodged for planning approval, with construction timing dependent on approvals and funding raised through church sources and a dedicated appeal.