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Australia’s four largest airports are planning to invest almost $20 billion into infrastructure upgrades over the next 10 years.
According to the ACCC’s latest Airport Monitoring Report, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth airports collectively invested $985.1 million in aeronautical facilities in 2023–24, more than half of which was accounted for by Melbourne’s $502.3 million.
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Melbourne’s works included a major runway resurfacing, with the airport also planning construction of a third runway and an expansion of its international terminal.
Sydney is set to begin an upgrade to its T2 domestic terminal in May, while Brisbane is revamping its own domestic terminal and international terminal, and Perth is embarking on a “One Airport” transformation project to unify its operations at the Airport Central precinct.
“While the four major airports held back on investment during the pandemic period, this is starting to change now there is more certainty around demand for travel,” ACCC commissioner Anna Brakey said.
“These significant capital works should help increase capacity at our major airports, leading to more flight options for travellers.”
According to Australian Airports Association (AAA) chief executive Simon Westaway, the big four airports are looking to spend around $19 billion on critical infrastructure upgrades over the next decade “to ensure both air passengers and airlines have access to world class facilities”.
“Australian airports are working to deliver the best experience possible for the surge in numbers of the flying public with necessary investment in aeronautical upgrades,” Westaway said.
“We note the airlines had some varying concerns in the report on issues like runway capacity, aerobridge maintenance and congestion, which are problems that airports are working to address through these planned major developments.
“Total air passenger numbers at Australian airports are expected to reach 210 million by 2030, a more than 30 per cent increase on existing levels.
“With that level of passenger traffic heading through our local terminals, it’s vital our airports continue to upgrade and expand facilities to meet both demand and customer expectation.”
The news comes as Western Sydney Airport is slated to open in late 2026, which will add a 24-hour gateway to the Sydney basin. The airport last week launched a $16 million fund to entice international airlines in conjunction with the NSW government.
The airport has already secured its first domestic and international carriers, with Qantas and Jetstar signing on in 2023 and Singapore Airlines last year.
