Following earlier consultation with members, Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) have formally lodged a comprehensive submission to Brisbane Airport Corporation in response to the development of the Brisbane Airport 2026 Master Plan.

This submission reflects extensive feedback received from FTA/APSA members and focuses on the operational realities, capacity constraints and long-term planning risks facing air freight, logistics and cold-chain operations at one of Australia's most critical air cargo gateways.

Brisbane Airport plays a vital role in supporting Queensland's exporters, importers and time-critical supply chains. With growing freight demand, population growth and the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it is essential that freight is positioned as a core strategic priority within the Master Plan.

Key Positions & Recommendations

Below is a snapshot of the major issues raised and the recommendations put forward on behalf of members.

Protect Freight-Dedicated Industrial Land (Critical Priority)

FTA/APSA emphasise that protecting freight and logistics land is fundamental to maintaining efficient and resilient air cargo operations.

Key points:

Increasing pressure from higher-yield commercial and retail development
Risk of long-term displacement of logistics, warehousing and cold-chain operations
Loss of freight land would constrain capacity and increase supply chain costs

Recommendation: Safeguard on-airport and adjoining industrial land for freight, logistics, warehousing and cold-storage operations across the full 20-year Master Plan horizon.

Publish a Long-Term Cargo Infrastructure Development Roadmap

Members consistently highlighted the need for planning certainty and transparent infrastructure sequencing.

Recommendation:
Develop and publish a detailed cargo infrastructure roadmap covering warehousing, cold-chain, automation, inspection capacity and digital integration, aligned with the Master Plan's land-use framework.

Strengthen Landside Connectivity and Freight Access

Efficient air freight is dependent on reliable landside and airside connectivity.

Recommendation:
Adopt a "freight-first" approach to road and transport planning, including improved heavy vehicle access, congestion management, wayfinding and coordination with state and local authorities.

Modernise Border, Biosecurity and Inspection Infrastructure

Capacity and resilience of inspection and clearance facilities are critical for time-sensitive cargo.

Recommendation:
Commit to scalable bonded, quarantine and inspection infrastructure to support forecast growth, peak demand periods and disruption events.

Develop a Coordinated Air Freight Workforce Strategy

Workforce availability and skills remain a key risk to future freight performance.

Recommendation:
Establish a coordinated workforce strategy with TAFE, universities and industry bodies, incorporating targeted training, apprenticeships and long-term workforce planning.

Next Steps

FTA/APSA will continue to engage closely with Brisbane Airport and government stakeholders as the Master Plan progresses. The submission outlines industry expectations and emphasises the importance of ensuring freight requirements are appropriately considered as modernisation plans progress.

Amanda Bradfield - Head of International Freight & Logistics - FTA | APSA

FTA / APSA Submission in response to the Brisbane Airport 2026 Master Plan