The Government of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia has approved an $11.61m grant to upgrade and restore the Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink.

The Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink project received the grant through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.

The project involves the construction of a new roof structure, new changing rooms, a modern ice floor and barrier system, upgraded spectator seating areas, and new skate-hire facilities.

Construction on the project is planned to begin in late 2024.

Prior to its closure, the ice rink served as the home for more than 20 Olympic ice skaters.

NSW Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said: “Since the closure of the facility, skaters from the area have been travelling hours across Sydney, even to Canberra of a weekend, to train. Come mid-2026 this will no longer be the case, with this wonderful facility back up and running in our own backyard.”

The NSW Government is planning to work with the Ice Skating Club of the state to deliver the upgrade project.

Once upgraded, the Western Sydney institution is expected to be utilised by more than 120,000 visitors per year.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said: “This funding will get thousands of athletes performing incredible feats and scoring goals, while allowing patrons young and old a fantastic opportunity to learn to skate.

“This much-loved ice rink will allow the Ice Skating Club of NSW to partner with state and national bodies in figure skating and ice hockey to host events at the state, national and international level.”