Newcastle Airport Reaches New Heights as Final Roof Beam is Installed

In a momentous event today, Newcastle Airport reached a significant milestone in its terminal expansion project with the placement of the final roof beam. This ‘topping out’ ceremony symbolises a pivotal moment in the airport’s transformation into a major international hub for the Hunter Region. Federal Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson MP, joined dignitaries and local stakeholders to celebrate the occasion, which marks the near completion of the terminal’s structure.

Meryl Swanson MP expressed her excitement about the progress of the project, which is backed by the Albanese Government’s $55 million funding. “It’s thrilling to see the progress made with the new international terminal upgrade. I am proud to have delivered this vital infrastructure that will support the growth of our region both socially and economically, creating thousands of new jobs through expanded tourism and freight opportunities,” said Swanson.

Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr. Peter Cock, emphasised the importance of the terminal expansion as a “once-in-a-generation” project that will significantly enhance the region’s connectivity and economic development. “This milestone represents a significant achievement for the Hunter Region. Thanks to Federal Government funding and the enthusiastic support from the community, we are on track to complete the terminal by mid-2025,” Dr. Cock said.

The $55 million allocated for the terminal upgrade, coupled with an additional $66 million for airfield improvements, will enable Newcastle Airport to boost both domestic and international flight capacity. Dr. Cock highlighted the broader impact, stating, “This expansion will increase tourism, strengthen industry, enhance trade, create diverse job opportunities, and connect our region to the global stage. It will also open up freight capacity, driving new and innovative industries.”

The ceremony marked not just the progress of the terminal expansion but the collective support of the Hunter Region’s leaders and business groups. Dr. Cock added, “This achievement belongs to the region. Through our collective alignment, we are creating infrastructure that will serve and uplift NSW for generations.”

The project has received widespread backing, including from Port Stephens Council, City of Newcastle, Hunter Joint Organisation, and Business Hunter. These partnerships, along with support from Commonwealth Bank, have propelled the expansion forward.

With the terminal expected to open by August 2025, the economic impact is set to be transformative. Over the next 20 years, the expansion will generate $12.7 billion in economic activity and create 4,400 jobs. Newcastle Airport is determined to grow its airline market, aiming to increase domestic routes and secure key international connections.

“Currently, Newcastle Airport connects to 11 direct destinations and over 65 destinations worldwide,” Dr. Cock said. “Once we have international capability, we can’t wait to offer more options for people to skip the M1 and fly out directly from Newcastle.”

The future looks bright for Newcastle Airport and the entire Hunter Region as the terminal expansion project continues to gain momentum, promising to open up a world of opportunities for residents, businesses, and international travellers alike.

Key Facts:

• Terminal expansion scheduled for completion in August 2025.
• Federal Government committed $55 million for the terminal and $66 million for the airfield.
• The expansion will create 4,400 jobs and drive $12.7 billion in economic activity over 20 years.
• The terminal will boost both domestic and international flight capacity.
• Partnerships include Port Stephens Council, City of Newcastle, Business Hunter, and Commonwealth Bank.