Sydney Markets has a history spanning more than 200 years — from an informal wharf market in colonial Sydney to one of the largest food distribution centres in the Southern Hemisphere.
Timeline
1788
An informal produce market is created.
1790
Prohibitions on trade are relaxed and surplus produce is allowed to be sold under market conditions.
1806
The first organised market is established by Governor Bligh at The Rocks.
1810
A market wharf is built in Cockle Bay and the marketplace is relocated to the current site of the Queen Victoria Building.
1842
Sydney City Council assumes control of the markets.
1869
Fresh fruit and vegetable markets open in Campbell Street.
1914
New market complex opened at Haymarket.
1968
The Sydney Farm Produce Market Authority is established to manage the markets.
1972
Work begins on constructing a new market facility at Flemington.
1975
Sydney Markets moves to Flemington.
1988
Sydney's Paddy's Markets cease trading at Haymarket and move to Redfern while the Market City development is under construction.
1993
Sydney's Paddy's Markets return to Haymarket.
1997
The NSW Government transfers ownership of Sydney Markets from the Sydney Market Authority to Sydney Markets Limited — a newly formed, industry-owned company.
2000
Sydney Markets celebrates 25 years of trade at Flemington.
2002
Sydney Markets Limited purchases the Flemington site and infrastructure from the NSW Government.
2005
Sydney Markets Limited celebrates 30 years of trade at Flemington.
2025
Milestone
Sydney Markets Limited celebrates 50 years of trade at Flemington.
