All You Need to Know: Accor Stadium
Originally constructed for the Sydney 2000 Olympics Accor Stadium - also known as Stadium Australia - is one of Australia’s largest and most iconic sporting and entertainment venues. Located in Sydney Olympic Park, around 14km from the Sydney CBD, it is the largest sporting stadium in the state with a capacity of over 83,000 and regularly plays host to premier events such as the NRL Grand Final and State of Origin matches, as well as regular season games, international rugby fixtures and the final of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Accor is the home ground for both the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
A Landmark Venue in Australian Sport
Built for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, the stadium was used to host the Opening and Closing ceremony as well as the track and field events including Cathy Freeman’s unforgettable 400m Gold Medal.
Since then, it has been transformed into a world-class stadium that plays host to NRL Grand Finals, State Of Origin’s and Bledisloe Cup matches alongside other major events like Oasis’ recent tour.
The stadium has seen countless historic moments: NRL Grand Finals, State of Origin clashes, Bledisloe Cup rugby tests, Rugby World Cup matches, and international football fixtures. Its large capacity makes it the go-to venue in Sydney for games and entertainment requiring scale and spectacle.
As part of the Sydney Olympic Park precinct, Accor Stadium sits alongside entertainment, parklands, and dining facilities, forming one of Australia’s most complete sporting and leisure destinations.
Best places for a pre-game drink
Near Accor Stadium – Homebush
Homebush Hotel – A newer venue that has become a go‑to just minutes from Accor Stadium. High end feel with competitive prices with a great bistro and sports bar making it perfect for a few drinks and a feed before you wander down to the gates.
Horse and Jockey Hotel – Another Homebush favourite with a proper footy crowd vibe. Expect hearty pub grub, plenty of beers and good banter - a great warmup spot before kickoff.
Around Central Station (easy transport to Homebush)
With Central Station being the main hub for trains heading out to Homebush, it’s a great spot to meet the crew for a few drinks before jumping on the train to the match together.
The Keg & Brew (Surry Hills) – A lively pub just a short walk from Central Station. Big drinks list, oven pizzas on the rooftop and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a couple of pints with mates, then straight onto the train out to Homebush.
Aurora Rooftop Hotel (Surry Hills) – A multi‑level pub with a rooftop beer garden and plenty of room for groups. Great selection of drinks and casual eats, and it’s located across the road from Central Station.
Getting to and from Accor Stadium
Train:
Olympic Park Station is located in the middle of the precinct and is a short walking distance from all venues in the park. Trains run regularly between Lidcombe and Sydney Olympic park with additional and direct services available during key events.
Bus:
Several bus routes run to Sydney Olympic Park from suburbs and the CBD. Event-specific timetables are often published for major matches and concerts.
Ferry:
Ferries operate to Sydney Olympic Park Wharf from Circular Quay and Parramatta, followed by a short 15–20 minute walk to the stadium.
Taxi & Rideshare:
Drop-off and pick-up zones are located within Sydney Olympic Park. These areas can become congested post-event, so patience is advised.
Private Vehicles:
Parking is available throughout Sydney Olympic Park, but spaces fill quickly on major event days. Pre-booking and early arrival are recommended to avoid delays.
Game Day
Food & Drinks:
Accor Stadium appointed Gema Group to manage its food and beverage operations beginning in 2024.
“We’re bringing the best of western Sydney’s diverse food and wine culture into NSW’s major venues,” Gema Group managing director Paul Valenti said at the time of winning the contract.
“We look forward to giving the millions of people who attend sporting and entertainment events the ultimate taste of Sydney.”
Match-goers can enjoy beloved local flavours the likes of El Jannah, Ribs & Burgers and Al Aseel, alongside reimagined stadium classics. From Lebanese, Greek and Turkish specialties to Vietnamese rolls and acai bowls, there’s something for every sports fan.
Merchandise:
Merchandise at Accor is typically event-specific. For NRL matches, A-League games, or rugby tests, fans can purchase official team apparel and memorabilia at pop-up stores throughout the concourse. Concerts and major events also feature dedicated merchandise outlets with exclusive items.
Fan Zones & Pre-Game Entertainment:
Event zones outside the stadium are common on bigger fixtures and often include sponsor activations, interactive games, live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly activities to create a festival-like atmosphere before the event.
Accessibility:
The stadium is fully accessible with ramps, lifts, wheelchair seating, accessible toilets, and companion seating. Staff are available to assist fans as needed.
Payment:
Allianz Stadium is a cashless stadium.
Post Match
Post match around Accor Stadium can often be chaotic, especially after a big clash.
For those who want to wait for the crowds to die down there are some great options for a post game beer or two, The Brewery Bar and Kitchen is a great bet. One of the most popular venues in the Olympic Park precinct, it features multiple bars, big screens and classic pub food. It’s the unofficial gathering point after big games, particularly for Bulldogs and Souths fans.
