The Boot Factory

27-33 Spring St, Bondi Junction

Boot Factory

The Boot Factory and is one of the last remaining examples of Victorian industrial architecture in Waverley. It is a heritage-listed building that has been classified by the National Trust.

Built in 1892 by William Sidaway, the factory initially produced boots under the Sidaway & Son brand. It passed through a number of hands, shifting to the manufacture of high-class footwear and fashion shoes after World War II, with its 'Sally Smart' model becoming a household name in Australia.

After its closure as a manufacturing centre 1969, the Boot Factory became a base for various community services and organisations including the Inventors Association of Australia. The Boot Factory was acquired in 1984 by Waverley Council, and it was re-opened two years later as part of the Mill Hill Community Centre.

The building has been vacant since 2007. In 2013, Council completed significant structural works on the building to ensure it remained stable until an alternative use was found.

In 2017, Council explored options to restore and repurpose the building, leading to the development of a Knowledge and Innovation Hub. The transformation, which began in 2021, includes flexible community spaces, an upgraded community centre, a new café and enhancements to the courtyard.

The Boot Factory will re-open in 2024.

Find out more about the Boot Factory Restoration and Upgrade.