The funding from the 2025-26 Budget represents the Government’s continued commitment to Western Sydney as it works through a State Significant Rezoning to shape the broader Penrith Lakes precinct into a leading destination for recreation, sports and relaxation.
A $5.2M investment will deliver two more summers of fun at Penrith Beach which has attracted more than 330,000 visitors since it first opened in December 2023.
Penrith Beach isn’t just a great place to take a dip on summer days it’s also building a better community last season delivering a free Junior Lifesaver program, which helped improve the water safety skills of more than 80 children aged 4 to 12.
The funding will allow safety and wellbeing to remain a top priority, with more free workshops to be scheduled for the upcoming seasons - focusing on water confidence, skin checks, and learn-to-swim programs.
The Government is also delivering $4M to help improve the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium so they can continue to welcome more than half a million visitors and host 1,700 sporting and community events annually.
The improvements to the precinct include the installation of a sluice gate, aquatic weed control to enhance water flow, regular water quality testing and reporting, the use of sonic buoys to prevent algae outbreaks, drainage line repairs to reduce flooding and erosion restoration around stormwater infrastructure.
The funding will provide a timely boost to the venues before they appear on the world stage hosting the International Canoe Federation’s Slalom World Championships for the first time in more than 20 years.
From September 29 to October 4 this year, international crowds will gather at Fox Island to witness more than 300 world-class competitors from 50 nations battle it out in the Canoe Slalom.
Among them will be the Australian team, featuring Olympic Gold Medallists Jessica and Noemie Fox, along with fellow Olympians Tim Anderson and Tristan Carter.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said Penrith has long been recording some of the hottest days on record. It’s never been more important for this community to have options where they can safely swim and enjoy recreation in, on or near the water.
“Penrith Beach, the Regatta Centre and Whitewater Stadium will now be able to deliver exactly that and more. I look forward to many more incredible summers filled with joy, connection and celebration.”
World Champion and Olympic Canoeist Richard Fox said the additional government investment in the Regatta and Whitewater precinct is great news for paddling and water sports.
“Maintaining good water quality is essential for safe and healthy activity on and around water. The planned infrastructure improvements will ensure that events, training and recreation continue to provide social and economic benefits to the community.”
