As the countdown to opening continues, Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) has appointed Professor Peter Shergold as the inaugural independent chair of its new community aviation consultation group.
Paul Lucas, who will be deputy chair, will bring extensive public policy, community consultation and infrastructure expertise to the post.
Simon Hickey, ceo of WSI, said Professor Shergold would bring a great depth and breadth of knowledge and experience to the role.
His 12 year tenure as chancellor of Western Sydney University reflected his dedication to the region and strong standing in Western Sydney, Mr Hickey said.
Mr Hickey said WSI’s major construction works are complete and the commissioning, testing and trialling of infrastructure, services and systems is under way.
Commercial partnership discussions with airlines and retailers as well as business precinct tenants and cargo terminal operators are also continuing at pace.
“As Sydney’s new 24-hour domestic, international and cargo airport, WSI is set to transform Sydney’s aviation sector, its freight capacity and the jobs and vital transport connections on which our nation’s third largest economy – Western Sydney – will continue to rely for decades to come,” he said.
“Establishing a strong coalition of community leaders, industry, public and private sector representatives who’ll have a seat at the table to provide feedback and input as the airport prepares to launch operations in the second half of 2026 is important to ensure all views are heard and to help inform decisions over the years ahead.”
The community aviation consultation group will work collaboratively with WSI to ensure community and stakeholder perspectives are considered in the operation, planning and strategic development of the airport.
The membership will bring together a diverse stakeholder group – including industry and community leaders as well as airline and government representatives.
The meetings, which will take place at least four times a year, will facilitate opportunities for:
- WSI to inform stakeholders on the planning, development and operations of the airport
- external stakeholders to raise issues and questions regarding WSI
- reviewing and discussing any community-related issues
- reporting and providing recommendations to WSI regarding airport operations.
The broader CACG membership will be appointed over the coming weeks, after which the initial meeting of the new forum will be held.
Stupid place for an airport. Bad fog in Winter, bushfires in the Blue Mountains in Summer (flight path) and next to Sydney’s drinking water supply. Absolutely dumb decision!!