Customs House Sydney

"Customs House is not only a beautiful heritage building but also a wonderful starting point for exploring Sydney. The highlight of my visit was the reception staff, who were extremely friendly and welcoming. She went out of her way to offer assistance, providing information with warmth and professionalism.

Her approach felt truly ambassadorial, representing Sydney’s tourism with pride and genuine care. It left me with a very positive impression—not just of Customs House itself, but of the city as a whole. A perfect example of how great hospitality can elevate the visitor experience."

Min Min

"“Customs House in Sydney is a historical building located in Circular Quay, now a vibrant public space and visitor information center. The building has a rich history, originally serving as a customs house where import duties were collected. It became the head office for customs operations in New South Wales in 1887 and continued in that role until 1990. Now, Customs House is a multi-faceted public space, showcasing its architectural heritage while also offering modern amenities and attractions. It's the only accredited visitor information center in the Sydney CBD, providing maps, brochures, and assistance to tourists. The foyer features a large-scale model of Sydney's city center, viewed through a glass floor. Customs House includes an atrium, a library, exhibition spaces, and dining options. The building hosts various events and exhibitions, exploring current conversations, living histories, and emerging trends.” Online source/s

“Significant Heritage Site

Customs House was built on the site where the local Eora people watched the First Fleet land and raise the British flag in1788. The landing led to the first significant interaction between Aborigines and Europeans, which had a dramatic effect on the traditional indigenous owners of the land. In recognition of this, the Aboriginal flag is now permanently flown at Customs House.

Master of Trade

Customs House served as the control centre for all customs activities in New South Wales for 145 years. With Port Jackson, the first focal point for maritime trade, it played a powerful role in shaping the economic and social life of the new colony, regulating shipping and raising revenue from tariffs.

End of an Era

Customs control continued to operate from Customs House for the greater part of the 20th century. Over time, however, Sydney airport and Botany Bay emerged as alternative points of entry for goods and people. By 1990, the customs service needed more space and was moved to new premises. In 1993, the Federal Government leased Customs House to the City of Sydney for a period of 60 years.”

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THE SYMBOLS IN THE TERRAZZO FLOOR

The swastika symbols decorating this terrazzo floor were selected by the architect George Oakeshott during a reconstruction of Customs House in 1915-17. This stylised decoration was in keeping with the architecture of the building and can be seen in other financial and retail buildings of this era.

For many cultures the swastika is a symbol of peace and prosperity. It has appeared in cultures across Asia and Europe, including ancient Greece and modern India.

The clockwise swastika was adopted by the Nazi Party in 1920 and came to represent the abhorrent racial persecution and genocide of the Jewish people and other minority groups during World War 2.

The swastika symbols in this floor are counter-clockwise. During World War 2 the Customs Service covered the floor. The elaborate floor was revealed once more to the public when the building was refurbished in the 1990s.”

Text from Signboards in Customs House"

bohg9999

"Customs House is the kind of place that surprises you even if you have walked past it a hundred times on the way to Circular Quay. The sandstone façade looks suitably grand from outside, but step through the doors and the foyer opens into a bright atrium with a glass floor that reveals a detailed scale model of Sydney. You can spend ten minutes just tracing familiar streets with your eyes while ferries slide past outside the big windows. It feels like a small snapshot of the city within the city, and it instantly sets a curious mood for the rest of the visit.

The building is beautifully kept, with contemporary touches layered over its 19th century bones. The City of Sydney Library lives here, which means quiet corners, free Wi Fi, newspapers, and art books you can leaf through between strolls. Temporary exhibitions and installations pop up around the ground level, so there is often something new to see without paying a cent. If you want to make an occasion of it, the rooftop restaurant serves up harbour views that are hard to beat for a celebratory lunch or a slow drink at sunset. Even a quick coffee at one of the street level spots feels elevated simply because of the setting and the constant theatre of the Quay outside.

Practicalities are easy. Entrances face both the Quay and Macquarie Place, lifts run to all floors, and staff at the information desk are relaxed and helpful. The atrium is a cool refuge on hot days and a dry shortcut when the weather turns. I like to pair a visit with a walk along the foreshore to the Opera House, then circle back through The Rocks. Customs House works as a destination and as a moment of calm in the middle of Sydney’s busiest postcard."

Le Hoang Giap