In a significant stride towards transforming Australian aviation, the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) has achieved a significant construction milestone. Completing the terminal roof symbolizes the project’s progress and marks a pivotal moment as the airport moves closer to operational readiness.

WSI, Sydney’s new 24-hour international airport, is now more than 80 percent complete. Set to commence domestic, international, and air cargo services by late 2026, the project is expected to revolutionize air travel in the region. The recently completed roof has been critical, ensuring the building is weatherproof and accelerating internal fit-out works. These works will soon include the installation of a feature ceiling, departure areas, lounges, and retail spaces, bringing the airport to life.

The construction effort has been massive, involving more than 100 workers, many locals from Western Sydney. Over the past 18 months, this dedicated team has worked tirelessly to build the terminal roof, which is a testament to their hard work and commitment. Overall, approximately 3,500 people are working daily to bring WSI to fruition.

The project has also been a boon for domestic manufacturers. The new roof structure features over 40 kilometres of Australian-made steel purlins and over 3,500 tonnes of steelwork, primarily fabricated in Adelaide, Whyalla, Tamworth, and Orange. Additionally, installing more than 6,000 solar panels on the roof will help power the terminal operations and the broader airport, underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainability.

WSI is more than just an airport; it is a transformational infrastructure project poised to generate substantial economic activity and employment opportunities for the Western Sydney region. Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King highlighted, “The countdown is well and truly on – it won’t be long until the people of Western Sydney will be flying out of their brand new 24-hour international airport. Completing the terminal roof is the culmination of about 18 months of hard work by more than 100 tradespeople, many of whom are Western Sydney locals. The project has also shown strong support for domestic manufacturers – with steel for the roof sourced here in Australia. The airport has also invested more than half a billion dollars with hundreds of Western Sydney businesses since construction began in 2017.”

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the project’s economic benefits. “This transformational project is attracting billions of dollars worth of investment into Western Sydney, which is our nation’s third-largest economy and one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. In addition to the existing construction workforce, future airport operations are anticipated to create thousands more jobs, which is fantastic news for the people of Western Sydney who’ll benefit from these employment opportunities without having to face a lengthy commute.”

Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley MP, supported the project, stating, “The Western Sydney Airport continues supporting local jobs and our economy. I’m glad Australian-made products are generating much-needed benefits in our community, and I am looking forward to the continued job creation for people and businesses in the area.”

As the Western Sydney International Airport edges to completion, it is a beacon of progress, innovation, and opportunity. The airport promises to meet Sydney’s growing aviation needs, drive economic growth, and provide substantial employment opportunities, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of the region’s future.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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