Registrar General’s Building

About the project

The Registrar General’s Building (RGB) is part of a collection of heritage buildings and significant institutions that form part of the Macquarie Street East (MSE) precinct, situated between the Sydney CBD and The Domain.

Steeped in history, MSE will tell the cultural, civic and heritage stories of Sydney to today’s global audience. Established institutions in heritage-listed buildings alongside new cultural attractions will deliver experiences across places and spaces that entertain, educate and surprise – by day and by night. Open and accessible, MSE will embrace and enhance the city’s arts and cultural offer, a place where Sydney’s rich Aboriginal and modern histories come to life and arts and culture thrive.

What’s happening now?

An early works program has begun, and includes removal of later editions to the RGB, heritage conservation works, and creation of open space - providing a new pedestrian link between the CBD and The Domain.

Planning to commemorate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by establishing a public square in her honour and memory (QEII) is also included. The QEII square will be established at the new public space on the northern side of the RGB, providing a gateway to The Domain and Macquarie St. These are the first steps in giving the iconic RGB and the wider MSE precinct a new lease of life, while protecting its historic integrity and character.

The early works program will continue into 2024, with planning for the design and delivery of QEII square progressing separately. This will be subject to separate approvals.

Background

A precinct review of Macquarie Street East, led by former Prime Minister Paul Keating and former Greater Sydney Commission Chief Commissioner, Lucy Turnbull, made recommendations for the heritage buildings and spaces in Macquarie Street East, including the Registrar General’s Building, to showcase the city’s cultural and social history.

The review found the precinct currently has unrealised potential and is not welcoming to either visitors or Sydneysiders. It lacks vibrancy and connectivity and is difficult to navigate.

In April 2022, funding was allocated for the first phase of permanent precinct transformation.

Further information on the precinct can be found in the MSE master plan.