Western Sydney Airport set to open in late 2026

Western Sydney Airport is one step closer to reality following the completion of its roof, paving the way for the acceleration of its internal fit out.

According to a new statement, more than 80% of the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is now complete, with domestic, international and air cargo services expected to commence from the gateway from late 2026.

The statement, issued on behalf of Australia’s Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, the country’s Minister of Finance, Katy Gallagher, and Werriwa MP, Anne Stanley, says: “Completion of the roof represents important progress for the project as it weather-proofs the building, allowing for the acceleration of internal works like the feature ceiling, departure areas, lounges and retail space.

“More than 100 workers, including many Western Sydney locals, helped build the roof over the past 18 months – part of a broader workforce of around 3,500 people bringing WSI [Western Sydney International] to life each day.

“WSI also continues to support domestic manufacturers, with the new roof structure bolstered by more than 40 kilometres of Australian-made steel purlins and more than 3,500 tonnes of steelwork, primarily fabricated between Adelaide, Whyalla, Tamworth and Orange.

“More than 6,000 solar panels will be affixed to the roof to help power terminal operations and the broader airport.

“WSI is a transformational infrastructure project that will generate economic activity, provide employment opportunities for people in the Western Sydney region, and meet Sydney’s growing aviation needs.”

King added: “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.

“I’m excited to witness the latest construction progress, especially the completion of the terminal roof, which is the culmination of about 18 months 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.”