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Global inflight catering and retail firm dnata is building a $17 million centre at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).
Construction on the 3,200-square-metre facility, expandable up to 6,400 square metres depending on demand, is already underway at the WSI cargo precinct and is tipped to be ready by late next year when the airport is expected to open.
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According to dnata Australia’s chief commercial officer, Mark Stubbings, the facility will “incorporate the latest technologies in design and operation to minimise its environmental footprint, featuring energy-efficient equipment, a recycled water system and a waste treatment plant”.
The investment also includes ground support equipment like catering trucks and light vehicles, with recruitment expected to begin next year for roles such as chefs, drivers, and catering attendants.
“Our highly trained team, advanced facility and equipment will deliver world-class services and products, helping WSI establish itself as a leading international aviation hub,” Stubbings said.
“We are excited to contribute to the airport’s growth and success with our innovative approach and passion for excellence.
“Thousands of workers – many of whom live in Western Sydney – have helped build this transformational greenfield airport, so I’m pleased to confirm that dnata’s investment will also create more than 200 new, direct jobs over the next 10 years.”
Western Sydney Airport last year secured its first international carrier in Singapore Airlines, as well as Qantas Freight for its first cargo airline; Qantas and Jetstar were in 2023 the first airlines to announce that they would fly to the new airport.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the investment from dnata is another sign of the airport’s “rapid progress and premier airline offering” ahead of its 2026 launch date.
“Being situated within our on-airport Cargo Precinct presents unrivalled operational efficiencies for dnata and airlines – including seamless integration and proximity to the terminal as well as dedicated airside access,” he said.
“What’s more, WSI’s prime location in Australia’s multicultural heartland and brand-new transport connections can also give dnata ‘food for thought’ in supporting access to the state’s local produce and vibrant regional food scene.
“Like everything at WSI, dnata’s centre is built for growth so it can expand as demand grows over the decades ahead, which will also create more and more jobs.”
Australian Aviation reported in October how the first official take-off and landing took place at Western Sydney.
The Piper PA-30 Twin Engine Comanche aircraft, VH-8MN, was tasked with taking off and landing at both ends of the runway in daylight, dusk and nighttime conditions to ensure the airport’s 3,000 aeronautical ground lights were fit for purpose ahead of the 2026 opening.
