Northern Australia gets major boost with airport expansion

9 May 2015
Warren Truss
Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development
The Northern Territory’s booming tourism industry has received a major boost with the completion of the $75 million Darwin International Airport Terminal Expansion, which was officially opened today in Darwin by Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the project is an important contribution to the region’s economy and will support continued growth in Australia’s north.
“The Australian Government made a commitment to develop northern Australia and this project supports that commitment, with growth in passenger traffic expected to reach 4 million people by 2030,” Mr Truss said.
“The terminal expansion has generated approximately 200,000 hours’ worth of local skilled employment, creating more than 80 local jobs, which is a significant economic boost to the region.
“With the airport contributing almost two per cent to Gross State Product, this project is an essential upgrade and continues our plan for a more productive and prosperous Australia.”
The extensive upgrades were an important investment for regional Australia.
“This project has seen an expansion of the terminal’s floor area by almost 70 per cent, with key upgrades to baggage, check-in and security screening facilities,” Mr Truss said.
“With the tyranny of distance that residents of the Northern Territory experience, what this means is an airport that is both more efficient and functional, ensuring passengers don’t experience unnecessary delays.
“The airport supports regional and remote communities in the Top End already, and I am pleased to see investment in strong transport links.”
Courtesy of the Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development