SYDNEY, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) -- The state government of Australia's New South Wales (NSW) on Tuesday announced new funding for upgrades to the Sydney Opera House.
The government said that 120 million Australian dollars (84 million U.S. dollars) will be spent on upgrades and critical maintenance projects to protect the long-term future of the World Heritage-listed building.
NSW's Arts Minister John Graham and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said in a joint statement with Louise Herron, chief executive officer of the Sydney Opera House, that the funding will strengthen the structure below the northern boardwalk facing Sydney Harbor.
Additionally, venues within the opera house will be upgraded, and digital networks and event management systems will be replaced for the first time since the iconic attraction opened in 1973.
"The Sydney Opera House is the symbol of modern Australia. It holds a special place in the hearts and imaginations of our community," Graham said.
The Sydney Opera House hosts around 1,850 performances and attracts nearly 11 million visitors every year. ■