Reports are showing that the iconic Sydney Opera House is now facing closure if the site is unable to inject some fresh funds into the program. These reports go on to claim that Richard Evans, the Sydney Opera House CEO, has confirmed that the top tourist attraction in Sydney needs some $800 million in funding to replace dated stage machinery.

Structural issues with the building’s stage infrastructure means that, if a major re-haul is not launched, the active working portion of the Opera House could be shutdown due to not meeting international codes and regulations. Apparently the media claims that a leaked engineering report says that the Opera House is unable to maintain its current level of activity by financial year 2011 if the funding levels stay the same.

The report apparently goes on to say that the Sydney Opera House is under funding pressure if it continues with a status quo approach. This is a real risk to persons on stage or being carried on the flying system for a malfunction or fault. Potential risks apply for people who are carried on the transport elevator.

This revelation comes as the well known Sydney Opera House is used as a focal point in the launch of this year’s Vivid Sydney Festival. Iconic sails light up during this event, as well as events held within the Opera House itself.

Due to the big role that the Sydney Opera House plays in the tourism market of Australia, it is unlikely that the government will let this iconic Opera House shutdown. At the same time, due to the economic downturn, times are tight and funds are hard to come by.