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Newcastle Airport has officially broken ground on its new multi-million-dollar terminal upgrade project.
The upgrades, partly funded by a $55 million grant from the federal government, will see Newcastle overhaul its international terminal, including passenger and border processing facilities, to better support international flights to and from the airport.
“Aviation is a catalyst to our economy’s growth and our region’s transition,” said Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock.
“Newcastle Airport is committed to growing the airport the region deserves. As the sixth largest economy in the country, the people of our region are passionately behind our airport and connecting the Hunter to the rest of the world.
“I would like to thank the Prime Minister and all the Albanese Government for their ongoing support and commitment to our vision for Newcastle Airport.”
The airport secured the federal grant funding ahead of the 2022 election, with both major parties pledging the terminal upgrade to follow on from the airport’s $66 million runway upgrade.
The works coincide with upgrades by the RAAF, which owns the airstrip at the adjoining Williamtown base, meaning if the airport had not secured the money in time it would have had to wait until the next scheduled upgrades in approximately 2040.
According to Transport and Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, the upgrades at Newcastle Airport will unlock “significant economic benefits” for local and regional tourism and trade.
“Making Newcastle Airport an international gateway will unlock greater opportunities for local tourism while better connecting residents to the world,” she said.
“The project will also support significant employment and economic stimulus during and after construction, providing even more of a boost for the Hunter.”
Newcastle Airport also signed a $240 million financing deal with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia in April, which will fund capital projects not covered by the grants, such as at its Astra Aerolab defence and aerospace precinct.
The terminal upgrade is scheduled for completion next year.
David Savage
says:Newcastle would have been a good option rather than the new multi-billion Badgerys Creek and all the infrastructure problems that is incurring with noise and forcing people out. No real full concern or consideration.
A very high-speed train to Sydney would have been a lot more cost effective. That would be 45-minute ride into Central like in K-L and Hong Kong with city check-in. Not very good research and effective and efficient planning. The train would also be subsidized by local commuters.
Where are all the real planners?