Destination NSW is gearing up for a significant boost in the NSW visitor economy with the upcoming opening of Western Sydney International Airport and the expansion of Newcastle Airport. These new airport infrastructures are set to provide a once-in-a-lifetime growth opportunity for businesses in the region, as they will serve as new gateways for millions of domestic and international visitors.
The expansion of Newcastle Airport, with a new international terminal and infrastructure upgrades scheduled for completion in early 2025, will significantly enhance the airport’s capacity to accommodate a larger number of passengers. Similarly, Western Sydney International Airport, set to open in 2026, is expected to attract five million passengers in its first year of operation. These developments will transform the way visitors arrive in NSW and create new opportunities for businesses in the visitor economy sector.
To help businesses capitalize on these upcoming changes, Destination NSW is organizing a series of Inbound Strategy Workshops in September 2024. These workshops will be held in key locations such as Greater Sydney, Newcastle, and the Hunter region, to prepare businesses to sell experiences via travel distribution channels to international visitors arriving in NSW through these airports.
Steve Cox, CEO of Destination NSW, emphasizes the significance of these airport upgrades, stating that they will be game-changers for the NSW visitor economy. He highlights the importance of businesses leveraging the economic opportunities that these airports will bring and emphasizes the role of Destination NSW’s NSW First program in building the capabilities of visitor economy businesses.
The Inbound Strategy Workshops will provide businesses with the necessary tools and knowledge to tap into the potential of the new airport infrastructure. Workshops will be held in various locations, including Hunter Valley, Newcastle, Sydney CBD, Parramatta, and the Blue Mountains. Additionally, a virtual workshop will be conducted to allow businesses from across NSW to participate and benefit from the insights shared during the sessions.
Overall, the opening of Western Sydney International Airport and the expansion of Newcastle Airport represent a significant milestone for the NSW visitor economy. By participating in the Inbound Strategy Workshops organized by Destination NSW, businesses can position themselves to take full advantage of the growth opportunities presented by these new airport developments. It is an exciting time for businesses in the region to prepare for the influx of visitors and capitalize on the economic benefits that these airports will bring.