Sydney's new 24-hour cargo precinct to benefit tourism operators

According to the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia, a new 24-hour cargo precinct planned for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) will be a game changer for tourism operators with benefits for the entire visitor economy.

TTF Chief Executive Margy Osmond welcomed the announcement that the new facility will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity by a third, with construction already underway ahead of the new airport opening in late 2026. Osmond said it’s great news for tourism operators and related businesses, not just in Sydney but across the country.

Osmond notes “this precinct will make it faster and easier for tourism operators, hotels, restaurants and other related businesses to receive the supplies they need to deliver a high-quality experience to all guests, whether they be Australian travellers or visitors from overseas.

“It’s also fantastic for major events, which remain essential to the visitor economy. Festivals, exhibitions and other large events will all benefit from the faster delivery of materials and equipment through this increased cargo capacity.”

Osmond noted that the new cargo precinct is set to make transporting animals even easier, while also helping with the movement of zoo animals.

“Pet owners will be delighted to know this new facility will also support the transport of beloved companions, improving their travel experience whilst also supporting wildlife tourism. This will streamline the transport of zoo animals for our vital tourism attractions, giving visitors even more opportunities to connect with unique wildlife,” she said.

Osmond also welcomed the critical role the new precinct will play in helping promote regional tourism across Australia.

“This facility will also help simplify the transport of goods to and from regional areas, allowing local products to reach tourists more quickly and easily in these destinations,” she said.

“By showcasing the best of our regions, we can encourage more visitors to explore the unique experiences these spectacular parts of Australia have to offer.”

She welcomed the announcement that both Qantas Group and Menzies Aviation have signed up to operate at the precinct, as well as the extra jobs the facility is expected to support.

This includes up to 2,000 jobs during construction and once open, more than 19,000 direct and indirect jobs via the precinct and the broader connected supply chains each year.

Image. Transporting giraffe Mtundu from Port Botany cargo terminal in 2017 to Mogo Zoo. Credit: Ports NSW