We’re unlocking the future potential of Queens Wharf by reimagining the waterfront, reconnecting people with the iconic Newcastle location, and linking the harbour to the city.

The Queens Wharf precinct includes two separate buildings, a public promenade (shared pathway) and ferry wharf (operated by Keolis Downer for Transport for NSW). It was constructed as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988 with an estimated life of 25 years.

Nearly four decades later, the western building (Queens Wharf West) has been largely vacant since a fire in May 2020 rendered much of it unusable and no longer fit for purpose, with areas of non-compliance with current building codes and standards. Following site investigations, we’re seeking development approval to demolish Queens Wharf West, a vital first step toward revitalising the precinct.

The demolition of the western building would provide an opportunity to take full advantage of the unique location to reinvigorate the harbour foreshore as a destination of choice for Newcastle and the Hunter region more broadly.

This stage of the project focuses solely on Queens Wharf West. Queens Wharf Hotel will continue trading under its current lease until 2033.

The Queens Wharf precinct has become an integral part of Newcastle Harbour’s footprint, and this revitalisation will support the area being reactivated to create more cherished memories for countless Novocastrians.

We recently asked for input from stakeholders and the community to help shape the future of Queens Wharf. Visit the Have Your Say webpage and read the Engagement Report to find out what we heard.

Following its submission in late August 2025, the development application to demolish the western building has now been approved. This milestone marks the first step in unlocking the future potential of this iconic harbourside location.

Demolition is scheduled to begin in 2026 and whilst this is underway, we’re exploring how we can bring some of the community’s temporary activation ideas to life, to be ready to activate the site once demolition works are completed.

The revitalisation of Queens Wharf will continue the transformation of Newcastle's historic East End into a thriving and dynamic destination for the region.