Sydney Zoo fills 250 jobs before late 2019 opening

Sydney Zoo is expected to inject $45 million into the local economy and attract one million visitors each year.

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Sydney Zoo is getting ready for its end of year opening, making its first offers to hundreds of new staff.

The new zoo, which is expected to open its doors in Bungarribee before the end of the year, is preparing to recruit up to 250 people across zoology, hospitality, retail and administration.

The mass recruitment comes after a series of jobs fairs attracted interest across Sydney earlier this year.

Sydney Zoo managing director Jake Burgess hands a new uniform over to employee Dana. Picture: Supplied

The new attraction is expected to inject an estimated $45 million into the local economy each year, attracting up to one million visitors.

The 250 positions are in addition to the 160 jobs created in construction, and include a mixture of entry-level and skilled roles.

Managing director Jake Burgess said the zoo was committed to recruiting a diverse workplace with Indigenous employees making up 10 per cent of the workforce.

“We saw a great response from our job fairs held earlier this year and have filled these

roles with a mix of local and greater Sydney talent,” Mr Burgess said.

Sydney Zoo will offer a safari-like experience for visitors when it opens to the public in Bungarribee before Christmas. Picture: Toby Zerna

“This is a major milestone for Sydney Zoo as we deliver on our promise to create a new major institution for the people of western Sydney.”

Western Sydney Minister Stuart Ayres praised the contribution of the zoo to local employment.

“Sydney Zoo is a game changer for tourism in western Sydney and an incredible opportunity for locals looking to build careers in this industry,” Mr Ayres said.

“The attraction itself together with career opportunities for local residents will boost the western Sydney economy.

“The whole of western Sydney is looking forward to the doors of Sydney Zoo being opened later this year.”

The zoo welcomed its first animal arrivals last month, including lion brothers Karoo, Virunga, Sheru and Bakari. Picture: Toby Zerna

Sydney Zoo is the first to be built in the region in more than 100 years and will offer a safari-like experience for visitors.

Last month the zoo unveiled its first animal arrivals to the public, including four lion brothers, three orang-utans, two cheetahs, three zebras, 11 chimpanzees, 13 baboons and three hyenas.

It is touted as Australia’s most advanced zoo, incorporating modern exhibit design, advanced behavioural enrichment for animals, water features and elevated boardwalks.