The newly completed Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) terminal reveals a design grounded in place, shaped by light and built for the future of aviation
WSI CEO Simon Hickey was joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King as well as senior executives from some of WSI’s key partners to celebrate this major milestone
Achieving a 5 Star Green Star Rating, the terminal’s modular design allows for phased expansion and integrates effective passive design principles, utilising natural ventilation, on-site energy generation as well as rainwater collection and recycling
As the first major airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI signals a generational shift that will transform Western Sydney. Located in Badgerys Creek, the terminal is a catalyst for long-term economic, social and cultural opportunity.
From initial design concepts by COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects to the design and construction by Multiplex and Woods Bagot, the terminal blends innovation with functionality. It reflects the identity of its setting while offering an intuitive and future-ready passenger experience.
Simon Hickey, CEO, Western Sydney International Airport said:
“We are on the precipice of launching a seamless and stress-free airport experience unlike any other in Australia. WSI will give our global city a 24-hour international gateway that will continue to create significant economic opportunities for all of Greater Sydney.”
Cristiano Ceccato, Director and Design Lead, Zaha Hadid Architects said:
“This is a rare opportunity to define the next generation of airport design on a global stage. Together with COX, we created a design that meets the highest standards of architectural innovation, passenger experience and operational efficiency. What makes this terminal extraordinary is its blend of human-scaled design and international ambition. It is grounded in its setting—and yet globally competitive.”
A terminal defined by light and landscape
Inspired by the vast horizons of the Cumberland Plain, the terminal’s architecture reflects the natural beauty of the region. Its horizontal form and transparency are informed by the surrounding landscape. Its sculptural ceiling—one of the building’s defining features—filters light from skylights in the roof, echoing rays of sunlight filtering through the peeling eucalyptus bark within the regions forests.
David Holm, Principal and Design Lead, COX said:
“From the outset, our vision was to create an airport that belongs to this place; not just physically, but in spirit and identity.
“The ‘Great Australian Light’ is one of the defining qualities of the Australian experience, and it has been central to our design thinking. The way light filters through the terminal shapes how people move, orient and feel – creating a sense of calm, clarity and connection. For many, this space marks their very first encounter with Australia, and we wanted that experience to feel unmistakably grounded in place.”
A passenger-first experience through a Western Sydney lens
One of the most culturally diverse regions in Australia; Western Sydney’s identity is reflected throughout the terminal’s public spaces. The design was shaped through consultation with Dharug Custodians, in collaboration with First Nations consultant Murrawin, embedding local narratives into the architecture. Open sightlines, warm materiality, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces result in a terminal that is egalitarian in spirit and expressive of local values.
David Holm said:
“We have created a place that celebrates the cultural richness of Dharug Country”
Neil Hill, Principal, Design and Delivery Lead, Woods Bagot said:
“The ambition was to create an airport that is not just a transit space but a destination in itself. The Terminal and Landside Forecourt establish a uniquely Western Sydney character – one that welcomes visitors while resonating with the many identities and cultures that define this region.”
WSI sets a new benchmark for simplicity and ease of movement. The architecture itself guides passengers naturally through the terminal, with strong visual cues and intuitive layout.
Built for the future
With a 5 Star Green Star Rating for its design, the WSI terminal integrates regenerative design principles, utilising natural ventilation, energy efficiency and water recycling. The terminal’s modular design allows for phased expansion, ensuring flexibility to accommodate future technology and passenger needs without compromising operational efficiency.
Neil Hill said:
“The terminal offers a constantly evolving visual experience and sense of joy as passengers move through the space. Respecting the initial concept, we configured the landside, terminal and airside design to balance and optimise the commercial and operational functional requirements. With the Multiplex team, and working closely with WSI, we introduced innovative design solutions to elevate the customer experience, deliver sustainable outcomes and apply industry-leading technical acumen.”
With its construction complete, the WSI terminal offers insights into the design and innovation shaping one of Australia’s most significant infrastructure projects.