The newly approved third runway will bring 51,000 jobs, $6 billion annually to Victoria, and enhanced travel options for Melbourne and surrounding regions
Melbourne Airport is set for a major transformation with the approval of a $3 billion expansion project, featuring a third runway that is expected to be completed by 2031. Infrastructure Minister Catherine King announced the approval on Friday, stating that the long-term project will position Melbourne Airport among the ranks of globally competitive airports.
The new 3000m-long runway, to be built parallel to the current north-south strip, west of the control tower, is forecast to bring significant economic benefits. The airport’s operators estimate the expansion will create 51,000 jobs and inject $6 billion annually into Victoria’s economy.
“This expansion will deliver jobs and economic growth for the state of Victoria and incredible opportunities for the people of Melbourne’s northwest,” said Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus. She also highlighted the benefits for travellers, noting, “It will give airlines the room they need to grow, which will provide travellers with more choice.”
Early works are set to begin in 2025, but the new runway also comes with some challenges. The introduction of new flight paths will mean some areas of Melbourne will experience aircraft noise for the first time, while others will see an increase. In response, the airport has committed to a noise-sharing plan and other mitigation strategies to address community concerns.
To meet these obligations, the airport must restore the length of the existing east-west runway, implement a noise-sharing and airspace plan, and conduct a community health study on the impacts of noise before and after the third runway becomes operational. “The noise sharing plan will be developed by the airport and in consultation with local communities over the years to come,” Minister King confirmed.
Melbourne Airport’s chief executive, Ms Argus, pointed out that this expansion has been decades in the making. “Melbourne airport was specifically designed to be Victoria’s primary 24-hour international gateway and we’ve been safeguarding for this expansion for decades.”
As the project unfolds, it will not only elevate Melbourne Airport to the level of Sydney’s airport but also serve as a crucial hub for surrounding regions like Wyndham City, boosting growth and connectivity across Victoria.
