Rugby League

CommBank Stadium: All You Need to Know

CommBank Stadium, located in Parramatta in the heart of Western Sydney, is one of Australia’s best new sporting stadiums. Purpose-built for rugby league, rugby union and football, it is the home of the Parramatta Eels, the NSW Waratahs and the Western Sydney Wanderers and often hosts finals fixtures and live music events.

Positioned just west of Parramatta CBD and easily accessible by public transport, the stadium offers a modern, fan-first experience defined by steeply tiered seating, excellent sightlines and a strong match-day atmosphere. Whether you are heading in for a Friday night blockbuster, an Easter Monday clash or a one-off major event, CommBank Stadium delivers a sharp, contemporary take on the live sport experience.

A Modern Stadium with a Rich History 

Opened in 2019, CommBank Stadium stands on the site of the former Parramatta Stadium, a venue steeped in rugby league history and synonymous with the rise of the Eels during the 1980s and beyond. Rather than abandoning the heritage, the redevelopment sought to retain Parramatta’s strong sporting identity while bringing Western Sydney a world-class facility designed for the modern fan.

Unlike multi-purpose ovals, CommBank Stadium was designed exclusively for rectangular sports with tight playing dimensions, the proximity of the crowd to the action and acoustics that amplify crowd noise and create an intense match-day environment. With a capacity of just over 30,000, the stadium balances intimacy with scale, ensuring atmosphere is always a priority. 

Best Places for a Pre-Game Drink

The Rose & Crown

First established in 1823 by Robert ‘One-Armed’ Green, who lost a limb in the Battle of Waterloo, the Rose & Crown has been a Parramatta stalwart for over two centuries and is situated within walking distance of CommBank Stadium. With 15 tap beers and ciders, an extensive wine and cocktail list and award winning kitchen team, it’s got to be on top of your list come game day in Parramatta. 

Church Street Dining Precinct

Church Street is one of Sydney’s most diverse food hubs. This vibrant and bustling ‘eat street’ features alfresco dining, art installations and a diverse range of cuisine from Nepalese to Greek and tapas to burgers.  

Parramatta Leagues Club
A quintessential leagues club with several dining and bar options and even a ten pin bowling alley. From a quick pre game feed in The Bistro or K’s Noodle Bar to an ice cold schooner in Sterlo’s Sports Bar, Parra Leagues has your pre match needs covered. 

Harris Park

Known as one of Sydney’s greatest curry hotspots, Harris Park bursts with South Asian flavour and colour. Hop off the train at Harris Park and enjoy a pre game Butter Chicken or Vindaloo - if you’re game - before walking around 25 minutes to the ground. 

Getting There

Train
Parramatta Station is the closest major station and around a 10 to 15 minute walk to the stadium. It is well served by frequent services from Sydney CBD and Greater Western Sydney and is the recommended option on event days.

Light Rail
The Parramatta Light Rail stops at Prince Alfred Square, approximately a 5 minute walk from the stadium. Services run regularly and provide a convenient option from Parramatta Square and surrounding areas.

Bus
Regular bus services operate to Parramatta Interchange and along O’Connell Street, both within walking distance of the stadium. Additional services or diversions may operate on major event days.

Ferry
Sydney Ferries services operate to Parramatta Wharf. Travel times are longer than rail options, and from the wharf fans will need to walk or connect via light rail.

Taxi and Rideshare
Designated drop-off and pick-up areas operate near the stadium precinct on event days. Traffic restrictions and congestion are common around kick-off and full-time, so allow extra travel time.

Driving and Parking
There is no general public parking at the stadium on event days. Limited accessible parking is available by pre-booking, and nearby commercial car parks are located throughout the Parramatta CBD. Public transport is strongly recommended.

Game Day Experience

Food and Drink
CommBank Stadium offers a broad mix of food and beverage options, blending traditional stadium favourites with more contemporary offerings. Fans can expect quality burgers, hot chips, wraps and international flavours, alongside lighter options such as salads and vegetarian meals.

Bars throughout the venue serve a range of local and imported beers, wines, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks. Premium hospitality areas and lounges provide an elevated dining experience, with curated menus and dedicated service for corporate and hospitality guests.

Merchandise
Official Parramatta Eels and NSW Waratahs merchandise is available at multiple outlets around the concourse on game day. From jerseys and scarves to caps and supporter gear, it is easy to kit up before heading to your seat.

Accessibility
CommBank Stadium is fully accessible, with lifts, ramps and designated seating areas for patrons with limited mobility. Accessible amenities are located throughout the venue, and event staff are available to assist where required.fall

Post Match

Parramatta CBD and Church Street
After full-time, most fans make their way back towards the CBD. Church Street remains the focal point, with pubs and restaurants buzzing as supporters talk about the moments that defined the game. 

North Parramatta and Surrounding Suburbs
For those keen to avoid the immediate post-match rush, nearby areas such as North Parramatta and Rydalmere offer quieter pubs and casual dining options, just a short drive or rideshare away.

The Morning After
For those staying local, Parramatta’s café scene comes to life the following morning. Coffee spots and brunch venues are scattered along Church Street and nearby streets. 

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