Major Boost for Sydney Entertainment as Randwick Racecourse Event Cap Lifted

Under the change, the iconic racecourse will now be able to host up to ten major cultural events each year, attracting crowds of between 5000 and 15,000 people — in addition to its regular race days

The Minns Labor Government says the move will inject more than $19 million into the NSW economy and support more than 100 ongoing jobs, while creating new opportunities for young people, families and visitors to experience live music, festivals and cultural showcases.

Premier Chris Minns says the change is part of a broader push to revitalise Sydney’s social and cultural life.

“Sydney is a global city — it should be buzzing not just on our premier race days, but all year round,” Mr Minns says.

“By unlocking this iconic venue to host more events, Royal Randwick is helping drive new life back into our city, supporting jobs, local businesses, and fun.”

The reform builds on a series of recent measures, including lifting concert caps at Centennial Park and the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct, launching the redevelopment of the nearby Entertainment Quarter, and removing outdated restrictions around live music and outdoor dining.

Minister for the Arts and Night-time Economy John Graham says the decision makes it easier to activate Sydney’s most iconic spaces.

“We need more spaces for outdoor entertainment in Sydney,” Mr Graham says. 

“Randwick Racecourse has great transport links and is a perfect setting for more cultural events. For too long, Sydney has been reined in by red tape — we’re changing that.”

Planning Minister Paul Scully says the approval follows extensive community consultation and includes safeguards such as real-time noise monitoring and event hotlines to ensure neighbourhood amenity is protected.

“We’re realising Royal Randwick’s full potential as a cultural and community hub — a space built for big moments and shared experiences,” Mr Scully says.

Local Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O’Neill welcomed the move as a win for the Eastern Suburbs community.

“This is about giving people in the East more opportunities to enjoy world-class events right on their doorstep,” Dr O’Neill says. 

“We’ve listened to local voices and put strong protections in place. It’s a win for our community, our economy and our young people.”

The first new events at Royal Randwick are expected from late 2026, giving Sydneysiders even more reasons to get out and enjoy live entertainment close to home.