Parramatta

Parramatta is a commercial district west of central Sydney in the state of New South Wales. The area follows the Parramatta River and combines office towers, shopping arcades and government buildings with parks and heritage lanes.

European settlers founded one of the first colonies outside Sydney Cove here in 1788 and used the land for farming. The settlement grew into a major trading point during the 19th century and later developed into a center for administration and industry.

The name originates from the Dharuk language word Baramada, referring to the place where eels gather in the Parramatta River.

Public transport connects the district regularly to central Sydney and surrounding suburbs. Most shops, parks and pedestrian zones are within walking distance of the train station.

The area sits at the turning point of the river tidal limit, which once made settlement easier. The river section still shows the shift between fresh and salt water depending on the tide.

Location: Sydney

Location: New South Wales

Location: City of Parramatta

Inception: 1788

Elevation above the sea: 26 m

Shares border with: Merrylands, Granville, Harris Park, Rosehill, Rydalmere, North Parramatta, Oatlands, Dundas, Camellia, Mays Hill, Westmead

GPS coordinates: -33.81500,151.00111

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:33