Sydney Airport has received government approval for a long-term growth strategy designed to strengthen Australia’s international gateway.

SYD Terminal Expansion - Master Plan 2045

SYD Terminal Expansion - Master Plan 2045 - rendering

Credit: Sydney Airport (SYD)

Sydney Airport (SYD) has secured Australian Government approval for its Master Plan 2045, providing a long-term framework for expanding Australia’s busiest airport to meet growing passenger demand over the next two decades.

The approval from Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King supports plans to strengthen international connectivity, improve passenger facilities and drive economic growth across New South Wales.

Under the plan, Sydney Airport expects to welcome more than 72 million passengers annually by 2045, including 36.4 million international travellers and 36.2 million domestic and regional passengers.

Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, said the approval provides a clear pathway for investing in the infrastructure needed to support Sydney’s future growth while balancing sustainability and community engagement.

A key element of the strategy is the proposed redevelopment of the airport’s domestic precinct, creating a more integrated terminal experience that brings domestic, regional and international services closer together.

The Master Plan also provides the framework for future investment in terminal capacity, transport connections and passenger facilities to accommodate rising demand and improve the overall passenger journey.

Beyond passenger growth, the airport’s economic contribution is forecast to reach around $70 billion annually by 2045, while direct employment across the airport precinct is expected to increase to more than 105,000 jobs.

Sustainability also forms a significant part of the long-term vision. The Master Plan incorporates Sydney Airport’s five-year Airport Environment Strategy, which outlines measures to reduce emissions, strengthen climate resilience and support more sustainable airport operations.

Sydney Airport said the strategy was developed with input from government agencies, industry partners and local communities, with ongoing collaboration expected as projects progress throughout the coming decades.