Harbour Trust Information

Established by the Federal Government in 1999, the Harbour Trust protects and manages extraordinary foreshore sites on Sydney Harbour. Our portfolio includes Cockatoo Island, Headland Park (Mosman), Macquarie Lightstation, North Head Sanctuary (Manly) and Sub Base Platypus (North Sydney). Each site is rich in history, with artefacts from Sydney’s naval, industrial and convict history as well as strong ties to First Nations countries. Striking a balance between innovation and conservation, our role is to breathe new life into these locations, creating vibrant public domains where visitors can engage with local history and enjoy unique experiences. Major cultural events such as the Biennale of Sydney – hosted every two years at Cockatoo Island – have contributed to the popularity of our sites, which attract more than 1.55 million visitors each year. The Harbour Trust acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters of Sydney Harbour, and the sites under our stewardship: the Borogeggal, Birrabirrigal, Cammeraygal, Gadigal, Gayamagal, Wallumedegal and Wangal people.