In a historic vote that marks a pivotal moment for Sydney’s urban development and racing industry, members of the Australian Turf Club (ATC) have firmly rejected a $5 billion proposal to sell Rosehill Racecourse for a major housing redevelopment.
After 17 months of intense debate, 56% of ATC members voted against the plan, while 44% were in favour. The vote, conducted on Tuesday, brought an end to a state government-backed proposal that aimed to transform the iconic western Sydney racecourse into a “mini city” with 25,000 homes and a new Metro West station.
ATC Chairman Peter McGauran, who supported the proposal, acknowledged the outcome with disappointment but maintained optimism for the club's future. “It’s more of a challenge because we don’t have the funding that could have been available to us through the sale,” he said. “Nonetheless, we are a viable and strong club and the future is in our hands.”
The rejected deal would have seen the state government acquire the 112-hectare site and on-sell it for residential development, with proceeds funding $1.9 billion in upgrades to other racecourses, including Warwick Farm and Randwick.
The government framed the redevelopment as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to ease Sydney’s housing crisis. Premier Chris Minns voiced his disappointment on ABC Radio, saying, “I thought this would be a good step forward for Sydney.”
Ahead of the vote, members received detailed information outlining arguments from both sides. Supporters pointed to declining attendance and outdated infrastructure at Rosehill, suggesting the deal could secure racing’s future. Opponents argued it would erase a historic venue central to the sport’s identity.
More than 11,000 members participated in what McGauran earlier described as the “most important and consequential vote in the club’s history.”
With the proposal now defeated, attention will shift to how the ATC navigates financial and infrastructure challenges without the anticipated government windfall. The club has reaffirmed its commitment to unity and long-term strategy amid changing times.
