Sydney’s long-awaited indoor ski resort is set to open in 2028 despite construction delays reported to be down to final planning issues, local media is reporting, with the project still expected to break ground later this year.

First announced nine years ago, Winter Sports World is a landmark $700 million indoor snow resort for Penrith, Western Sydney. Slated to open in 2028, it will be Australia’s first indoor ski destination of modern times, following opn from the country pioneering indoor skiing in the 1980s. The project was conceived by Peter Magnisalis, who envisioned “a building with snow in it” after purchasing a 2.4-hectare riverside block in 2009. Once rezoned in 2015 as part of the Riverlink Tourism Precinct, the concept evolved into a full-scale tourism icon.

The resort will feature a 300–350 metre advanced ski run, snow play zones, elite training areas, and a 200-room 4.5 star hotel with slope views, conference facilities, and alpine-style dining.

The entire facility is designed to be inclusive and sustainable, with solar panels, heat exchange systems, and water recycling aimed at achieving net-zero carbon operation.

Strategically located near the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport, it’s expected to attract over 1 million visitors annually and generate more than 2,700 jobs, contributing up to $222 million to the NSW economy each year.