Sydney Airport Gets More Time for Master Plan

Transport Minister Anthony Albanese and the Sydney Airport have reached an agreement that requires the airport to submit its long-term plans on December 2, six months earlier than originally scheduled.

Reports indicate that Albanese has long sought to require Sydney Airport to submit its 20-year plan by July 1. This requirement has motivated Sydney Airport to launch a legal action against Albanese.

Kerrie Mather, the chief executive of Sydney Airport, said Albanese agreed for an extension on the deadline for the submission of the master plan.

Mather said that Sydney Airport generates close to $28 billion in annual economic activity. She added that it is crucial that the long-term plan for the airport is developed.

The master plan involves a 20-year-old land-use plan for airfield, airport terminals, and ground transport report. Given the extension of six months, Mather said the time would be used to focus on how to improve the transport links.

An initial draft plan would be released by the Sydney Airport in the middle of the year. The draft plan would be open for public consultation.

The December 2 deadline has been agreed by both Sydney Airport and Albanese.

In a statement, Albanese said the extension ensures that public consultation would take place.