Sydney Airport has unveiled its latest addition, the T1 International arrivals forecourt, a vibrant and welcoming space that is set to become the front door to Australia for millions of international travelers every year.
The forecourt, a part of the airport’s 2039 Masterplan, reflects Sydney’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability, making it a unique experience for arriving passengers.
Sydney Airport T1 International Arrivals
The construction of the new T1 International arrivals forecourt commenced in November 2021, with a vision to enhance the customer experience for international travelers.
Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it would not only welcome visitors but also serve as a reflection of Sydney’s mesmerizing natural beauty.
A brighter future
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic when the project started, the airport team persisted with their efforts, anticipating a brighter future for international travel.
Today, as the global travel industry is on the path to recovery, the new forecourt stands ready to receive over 7 million arriving passengers this year alone.
[monsterinsights_popular_posts_inline]
The new T1 International arrivals forecourt embraces eco-friendly practices with the use of sustainable building materials. Native trees, plants, ground covers, and grasses were meticulously selected, and many of them are endemic to the local area.
The result is a seamless integration of nature and infrastructure that embodies the essence of Sydney.
An indigenous led initiative
At the heart of the forecourt’s design and maintenance is the involvement of Wildflower Gardens for Good, an Indigenous-led not-for-profit organization.
This initiative provides meaningful employment opportunities for individuals facing barriers to work. The organization’s inspiring team planted more than 12,200 native species throughout the forecourt, creating a natural oasis that captivates visitors upon arrival.
As custodians of the forecourt gardens, Wildflower Gardens for Good is committed to caring for the site. Their ongoing landscaping and maintenance work ensure the space remains a testament to their dedication and pride in their community and country.
Their partnership with Sydney Airport reflects a genuine commitment to empowering youth through employment and strengthening ties with First Nations perspectives.
Celebrating the Traditional Owners
Sydney Airport takes pride in celebrating the language spoken by the Traditional Owners of Coastal Sydney. Collaborating with the Gujaga Foundation, the airport offers insights into the Dharawal Language, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The opening of the T1 International arrivals forecourt was commemorated by the planting of a native Banksia tree by NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, The Hon. John Graham, MLC, Wildflower Gardens for Good board member, Jasmin Speedy, and Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert.
This symbolic act exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines the project. The new T1 International arrivals forecourt is just one component of Sydney Airport’s broader plan to enhance capacity and improve the passenger experience.
With an investment of nearly $3 billion in capital projects over the next five years, the airport is poised to remain at the forefront of providing world-class services to its visitors.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
 has officially opened its new T1 International Arrivals forecourt.){kind=link}