An iconic yet decrepit former power station that has greeted motorists crossing a busy Sydney bridge will now host one of the city's premier arts festivals.
Opening to the public for the first time in a century, the White Bay Power Station site in Rozelle will be home to the 24th Biennale of Sydney next year.
It is the first big move in the government's plan to revitalise Sydney's Bays West precinct encompassing Rozelle Bay, White Bay and Glebe Island.
Extensive remediation and conservation works have been undertaken to restore the once derelict heritage-listed building near Anzac Bridge to echo its former glory.
Arts Minister John Graham said the unique site is now ready to inspire global audiences.
"It has as much potential to amaze and inspire global arts audiences as any settings for leading Biennales of the world from Venice to Sao Paolo," he said.
"The power that this site will now generate is that of creativity."
Biennale chief executive Barbara Moore said this year's festival will include free admission to some of the best contemporary art from across the globe.
"For 50 years, the Biennale of Sydney has brought people together to think and talk about the world we live in, infusing art into the very fabric of Sydney and rejuvenated public spaces across the city," she said.
"We are thrilled to be hosting the first major event at White Bay Power Station."
