Upgraded Rockhampton Airport terminal officially opens

Rockhampton Airport now boasts an improved traveller experience thanks to recent major upgrades to the terminal and airport security screening.

The upgrade delivered new security equipment as well as additional airline lounge facilities, which will improve operational efficiency and enhance the experience of those flying in and out of the airport.

The project supported 50 full-time-equivalent construction jobs and six ongoing jobs in the community.

The improvements are thanks to a joint $35.44 million investment by the Australian Government, the Queensland Government’s COVID Works for Queensland program and Rockhampton Regional Council. 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm:

“I’m thrilled to see this major project is officially done and dusted – to the benefit of the local aviation and tourism sectors, travellers and community.

“Rockhampton Airport sees around 600,000 travel through its gates every year, and these upgrades will mean those people get a smoother and nicer experience.

“Plus, as a major local gateway for business and tourism, the improved traveller experience and capacity will result in flow-on benefits to the broader region by bolstering passenger numbers.

“It’s a win-win-win for Rockhampton, which is why the Australian Government is proud to have invested $13.74 million to make it happen.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Deputy Premier Steven Miles:

“Rockhampton Airport is a major access point for Central Queensland, it’s the first thing travellers see and a key part of the region’s economy.

“The refurbished terminal includes dedicated passenger lounges and a new mezzanine floor with more passenger facilities. It not only looks great, but the upgrade will increase passenger numbers, boost tourism, and create more jobs in Central Queensland.

“The Palaszczuk Government was proud to invest $6.44 million from the COVID Works for Queensland program into this important project.

“Combined, we’ve invested over $43 million in job-creating projects through Works for Queensland. This investment has supported 43 projects and created 864 jobs in Rockhampton.”

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams:

“The improvements to the airport have really elevated the terminal and helped take the airport to the next level.

“The Rockhampton Airport is a major gateway for business and tourism in our region.

“The upgrades have improved passenger convenience and safety, while greatly increasing the passenger experience during travelling, especially for families with children and elderly people.

“This is a transformational project that will significantly boost tourism and the economy.

“This project began as a reconfiguration to accommodate security screening upgrades required to comply with Australian Government regulations, however we took the opportunity to undertake a broader refurbishment to most of the old terminal building and create a terminal that better serves our growing region.

“As well as the security upgrades, the project involved building airline lounge facilities, replacing amenities, new cafes, upgrading the concourse, providing new and improved car hire booths, and improving the overall appearance and functionality of the airport.

“The upgraded facilities will have considerable flow on benefits to the broader region through increased passenger numbers.

“I’m very grateful to the Australian and Queensland governments for their support.

“The airport redevelopment is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work together for the community.”