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The new Western Sydney International Airport will be served by high-speed fibre internet after inking a deal with NBN Co.
Around 25km of fibre will be laid at the airport and its surrounding business park as part of a new Business Fibre Zone, which will enable data options close to 10Gbps and 24/7 local support across more than 1,000 premises.
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The airport and business park will also have access to future NBN products such as Smart Places, which extends Internet of Things’ functionality to infrastructure such as public Wi-Fi, digital billboards, CCTV and traffic lights.
“NBN will use innovative new equipment – miniaturised, ruggedised and reverse-powered network connection devices – that enable the power of the NBN network to be delivered to demanding outdoor locations that just aren’t serviceable using standard equipment,” said Andrew Walsh, executive general manager of new developments at NBN Co.
According to Federal Transport and Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, the Business Fibre Zone will make Western Sydney Airport one of the most technologically advanced in Australia.
“Western Sydney International Airport will unlock opportunities across the Western Sydney region, with increased freight capacity for local producers and business owners, saved commute times for locals wishing to fly within Australia or internationally and a boost in tourism, providing travellers better access to the regions and the Blue Mountains,” she said.
“This initiative is another step towards developing a fully-functioning, world-class airport that will create jobs, provide a major economic stimulus and improve communicability for all Australians.”
The airport, which is slated to open in stages starting from late 2026, has a long-term goal of handling 82 million passengers every year, a significant increase from the existing Sydney Airport.
While construction has already begun on the runways and terminal, there are concerns about fuel supply to the airport, as a pipeline is only being considered to open in the early 2030s, meaning B-double tankers will need to deliver the fuel for at least several years into its operation.
Campbelltown Labor MP Greg Warren last year blasted the plan as a “debacle” and “absurd”.
“When the operation reaches full capacity, the airport could potentially require 50 to 65 B-double fuel tanker deliveries per day, which would add to congestion on Sydney’s urban road network,” he said.
“Transport for NSW identified that the absence of a fuel pipeline will potentially compromise motorist safety, increase congestion and cause delays to freight corridors.”
