Established by the Federal Government in 2001, the Harbour Trust protects a network of extraordinary places on Sydney Harbour, including Cockatoo Island, North Head Sanctuary (Manly), Sub Base Platypus (North Sydney) and the precincts of Headland Park, Mosman – Georges Heights, Middle Head and Chowder Bay. Our portfolio also includes Woolwich Dock and Parklands (Hunters Hill), the Marine Biological Station (Watson’s Bay) and Macquarie Lightstation, the site of Australia’s first lighthouse.

Our places have enduring significance for First Nations Peoples. They also feature remnants from Australia’s colonial past, including the nation’s first coastal defence fortifications, and are home to rare and endangered native flora and fauna. Owing to their living history, many have State, National and World Heritage status.

We endeavour to provide a legacy for all Australians by revealing and amplifying the rich stories of our visitor destinations. Our approach involves their conservation, remediation and adaptive reuse. It also involves ongoing public programming, including guided tours, live music and cultural events, to ensure our places continue to occupy a central place in Sydney’s social landscape.

The Harbour Trust acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and Owners of the lands and waters of Sydney Harbour, including the places under our stewardship. We pay our respects to the Borogegal, Birrabirrigal, Cammeraygal, Gadigal, Gayamagal, Wallumedegal and Wangal people, including their Elders past, present and emerging.