MAYORS and council general managers from across the Hunter took an exclusive tour of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal development on Monday 12 May.
The local governments represented are members of the Hunter Joint Organisation (HJO), a collaborative body that brings together the ten councils in the region.
The tour was led by Newcastle Airport Director Leah Anderson, who also serves as the Mayor of Port Stephens and HJO Deputy Chair.
Joining Ms Anderson in delivering the tour was Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager People and Communications, Burcak Sezer and the Airport’s Planning and Infrastructure team.
The visit provided a behind-the-scenes look at the progress of the terminal, which is on track to open in August 2025.
Once complete, the upgraded facility will position Newcastle Airport as NSW’s second international gateway, unlocking new global routes, investment, and economic opportunity for the region.
The tour also included updates on the airport’s air cargo advocacy efforts, the continued growth of Astra Aerolab, and regional partnership efforts to attract new international and domestic routes.
Mr Sezer said collaboration was key to realising the full potential of the international terminal for the Hunter.
“The success of this project relies on strong regional partnerships,” Ms Sezer said.
“This facility will be a major driver of economic growth – not just for Newcastle, but for every part of the Hunter.”
Ms Anderson said the airport expansion will make the Hunter “more connected and easier to explore for both visitors and our local community”.
“This international gateway into our backyard will ultimately generate huge economic activity and is expected to drive increased local investment and support businesses across our region,” Cr Anderson said.
In attendance were representatives of Singleton, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog and Newcastle councils.
Cr Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton and Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation said, “As the Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation, representing the ten Mayors of the Hunter region, we understand the importance of the Newcastle Airport to our region’s ongoing economic transformation.
“This major infrastructure project will enable our region’s visitor economy to grow as investment and tourism opportunities open.
“It will provide great opportunities for external investment, driving further development and growth within our region.
“We want to share our breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and world-renowned vineyards with others and this provides us the opportunity to do so.”
