The A$200m investment aims to provide a faster, smoother, and more efficient travel experience for the 17 million passengers that use T2 every year, focusing on next-generation technology, modern facilities, and greater operational efficiency.
Once complete, it is anticipated that 95% of passengers will travel from the kerbside to airside in under 15 minutes.
The new layout will introduce more self-service kiosks and new bag-drop technology, allowing passengers to take control of their check-in process and speed up departures. With the airport currently processing 1,500 bags per hour at peak times, this upgrade will boost capacity to 1,800 bags per hour by 2026, further enhancing efficiency.
In line with the Australian Government’s security mandate to install ‘standard three’ security equipment by the end of 2025, the terminal will feature next-generation security technology and state-of-the-art scanners across seven processing lanes totalling 26m.
These new systems will allow passengers to leave items like laptops and liquids in their carry-on luggage, dramatically reducing security processing times, with each lane able to process 500 passengers per hour— a 113% increase compared to the current average throughput of 235 passengers per hour.
The streamlined security design will feature dedicated lanes for family and assistance, while two brand new lifts post-security will provide a more seamless experience for passengers to access the food court and gate lounges.
Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, said: “We are excited to announce our design vision for the T2 Domestic terminal. We believe these changes will make the T2 experience one of the fastest and most efficient in Australia which is a great outcome for passengers and our airline partners.
“These upgrades will not only transform security performance but will also support future demand, ensuring that Australia’s busiest airport terminal can accommodate the significant growth in passenger numbers we’re forecasting.
“These significant upgrades build on a series of improvements made over the past 12 months at T2, including the opening of the first Australian domestic airport department store in December 2023, new food, beverage and retail offerings – all designed to enhance the passenger experience and elevate the journey from start to finish.
"While we understand that the upgrade works may cause temporary disruption, we want to thank passengers and our airline partners for their patience and understanding during this important transformation. We’re working hard to minimise any inconvenience and ensure the terminal remains operational throughout the process.”
