More on Parramatta
Parramatta is one of Sydney’s most historically significant and rapidly evolving suburbs, with a rich past that dates back thousands of years. Originally home to the Darug people, the area was known as Burramatta, meaning "place where eels lie down," due to its location along the Parramatta River. It was an important site for Indigenous culture, trade, and sustenance long before European settlement.
Founded in 1788, Parramatta is Australia's second-oldest European settlement after Sydney. It quickly became a vital agricultural hub for the colony, providing food and resources to sustain the growing European population. Historic sites such as Old Government House, built in 1799, and Elizabeth Farm, established in 1793, reflect the suburb’s colonial heritage and early significance in shaping the nation.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Parramatta continued to develop as a commercial and transport hub, with rail connections established in 1855. Its central location made it a key business and administrative centre, attracting industries, retail, and services that supported Sydney’s expansion. The construction of modern infrastructure, including motorways and commercial developments, further cemented its role as a major urban centre.
Today, Parramatta is recognised as Sydney’s second CBD, undergoing extensive development with high-rise commercial buildings, modern residential projects, and large-scale infrastructure investments. The area's transformation has made it a prime location for industries such as construction, design, and manufacturing, with companies like Built to Desire benefiting from its strategic position and access to high-quality projects.
As one of Australia’s fastest-growing urban centres, Parramatta continues to balance its rich history with modern innovation, making it a key destination for businesses and residents seeking high-quality, well-designed spaces. Its evolution from an agricultural settlement to a thriving metropolitan hub reflects its ongoing importance in shaping Sydney’s future.