Designers Worldwide Challenged To Redesign Sydney Harbour Suburb Of Bays West

Architects and designers from around the world are being invited to submit their boldest ideas for Sydney’s brand new harbour suburb: Bays West. The international design competition, put forward by the Minns Labor Government, aims to transform the 77-hectare waterfront precinct into a fashionable neighbourhood.

“We’re calling for design teams across the globe to help shape the delivery of thousands of new homes and great new public spaces on the shores of Sydney Harbour,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.

 “This is the start of the next chapter for Bays West and the International Design competition will make sure this transformation is informed by the best ideas from around the world.”

The competition is being led by Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW and is to be undertaken in two phases: an “Expression of Interest” (EOI) phase, and a second, invitation-only phase. Both will be assessed by an independent Design Advisory Panel.

Bays West Design Competition: Phase 1

The first phase, open to all, asks applicants to submit “design-led Urban Frameworks” that reimagine White Bay Power Station precinct and Glebe Island. 

Concepts put forward are expected to “define Bays West’s identity, strengthen its civic and cultural role, and communicate the precinct’s long-term public value”, and include “homes, public spaces, entertainment, culture and unprecedented public access to the waterfront”. 

This phase is currently open, and will close on Friday 21 August 2026 at 3PM AEST.

Bays West Design Competition: Phase 2

Unlike the first phase, the second phase will be both paid and accessed by invitation only. Teams shortlisted to partake in this formal design stage of the competition will be remunerated $200,000 AUD, with international teams asked to partner with local Australian teams. The winning design team will play an ongoing role in the development of the area.

“We’re setting the bar for design excellence from the outset,” said Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper.

 “This competition will shape the look and feel of a new residential and recreational precinct at Bays West, a place rich in maritime, industrial and natural heritage, with deep Aboriginal cultural connections all of which will inspire its future design.”