Hunter Joint Organisation gets a sneak peak inside Newcastle Airport’s international terminal

Newcastle Airport today welcomed representatives from the Hunter Joint Organisation (HJO) for an exclusive tour of the international terminal development, led by Newcastle Airport Director Cr. Leah Anderson (also Mayor of Port Stephens and HJO Deputy Chair), Executive General Manager People & Communications, Burcak Sezer and the Planning & Infrastructure team.

Today’s visit provided Mayors and General Managers from across the Hunter region with 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.

Newcastle Airport EGM People and Communications, Burcak 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."

The visit was an opportunity for the HJO to reinforce its support for the international terminal, and for key voices across the region to speak to the broader benefits it will bring.

Newcastle Airport Director Cr. Leah Anderson, who is also Mayor of Port Stephens and Deputy Chair of the HJO, said we have such a beautiful region and we look forward to sharing this with others by making 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.

Attendees of the tour included:

• Singleton Council Mayor, Mayor Cr. Sue Moore (Also Chair HJO),
• Port Stephens Council, Mayor Cr. Leah Anderson (Also Deputy Chair HJO and Director Newcastle Airport); GM Tim Crosdale
• Lake Macquarie City Council, Mayor Cr. Adam Shultz; CEO Morven Cameron
• Maitland City Council, Mayor Cr. Philip Penfold; GM Jeff Smith
• Muswellbrook Shire Council, Mayor Cr. Jeffrey Drayton; GM Derek Finnigan
• Cessnock City Council, Mayor Cr. Daniel Watton,
• Dungog Shire Council, Mayor Cr. Digby Rayward 
• Cessnock City Council, Mayor Cr. Daniel Watton,
• Dungog Shire Council, Mayor Cr. Digby Rayward 
• City of Newcastle, CEO Jeremy Bath
• HJO, Lake Macquarie Council and Muswellbrook Shire Council staff & guests

Ms Sezer said the Hunter’s shared vision is clear: a connected, competitive, and confident region with an international airport that opens new opportunities for all. “It’s all about being the airport our region deserves.”
 
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 regions 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.”

Cr. Jeff Drayton, Mayor of Muswellbrook said: “We’re working hard to secure backing for an Air Freight Precinct at Newcastle Airport because it’s vital infrastructure for the Hunter. Direct international freight access would be a game changer for Muswellbrook and Hunter businesses. It means Hunter agriculture, manufacturing and mining industries can compete globally without relying on Sydney. It’s about opportunities, local jobs, and getting export-focused business to the Hunter. 

Muswellbrook and the Hunter are ready to grow - we need the freight infrastructure to match our potential. This isn’t just a Newcastle project. It’s a Hunter investment that strengthens our region as a trade and logistics hub.  We’re working with every level of government to get it done.”