Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) have provided a detailed submission to Sydney Airport in response to the proposed Sydney Airport 2045 Draft Master Plan.

The submission captures industry perspectives across exporting, importing, freight forwarding and logistics, with a focus on operational realities, infrastructure capacity and long-term planning risks. Given Sydney Airport's critical role in Australia's trade network, freight considerations must be embedded as a core element of the Master Plan.

Key Positions & Recommendations

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

Plan for Future Cargo Infrastructure
Develop a long-term roadmap covering freight precincts, warehousing, cold-chain capacity, automation, digital integration, and inspection capabilities.

Protect Freight Connectivity and Land
Adopt a freight-first approach to road access, congestion management, and alignment with transport strategies, while safeguarding on-airport and nearby industrial land for logistics and cold-storage operations.

Support Workforce and Operational Resilience
Establish coordinated workforce development with TAFE, universities, and industry, and strengthen operational resilience through scalable inspection, clearance, and IT systems.

Promote Competitiveness and Sustainability
Maintain transparent service metrics, fair pricing, and incentives for freighter activity, while embedding cargo-specific sustainability measures such as SAF, low-emission equipment, and renewable-powered cold-chain systems.

Adopt Performance Benchmarks and Policy Alignment
Implement measurable cargo KPIs aligned with global best practice and ensure cargo planning integrates with NSW and national freight strategies.

Next Steps

FTA/APSA will remain engaged as the Sydney Airport 2045 Draft Master Plan moves through its next stages, continuing to advocate for planning outcomes that recognise the essential role of air cargo and support the long-term efficiency and resilience of Australia's trade supply chains.

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

FTA / APSA Submission in response to the Sydney Airport 2026 Draft Master Plan 2045