Millions of foreign tourists can now use Sydney Airport‘s brand-new T1 international Arrivals forecourt, which was just formally inaugurated. The forecourt project is important for Sydney Air Terminal’s 2039 Masterplan, which is centered around conveying a superior encounter for clients.
Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert, said:
“International passengers are now greeted with a vibrant new arrivals forecourt that showcases the natural beauty Sydney is known for.”

Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert, continues to say that:
“The large ‘SYD’ sign has already become one of our most popular selfie spots, and we love that many tourists’ first photo in Australia showcases our stunning new forecourt.
Development of the new forecourt started in November 2021, with maintainable structure materials utilized and local trees, plants, ground covers and grasses chosen, with numerous species endemic to the neighborhood.
Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert, added:
“When construction on the forecourt began in 2021, Australia’s border was still firmly shut and our international terminal was a ghost town, but we pressed ahead knowing the recovery would come.
T1 International New Airport Forecourt – key numbers
The new airport forecourt is only one of many significant activities in progress to upgrade limits and work on the experience for travellers. Over the following five years, Sydney Air Terminal is spending almost $3 billion on capital activities across the region.
- 12,200+ native plants (45 different species)
- 3,000+ sqm of new green space
- 10,000 sqm of new paving
- 8,500 sqm of new roof sheeting
- 160+ new LED lights
- 31 new seating benches, 8 tables and 32 chairs
The Hon. John Graham, MLC, NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Jasmin Speedy, a board member of Wildflower Gardens for Good, and Geoff Culbert, CEO of Sydney Airport, planted a native Banksia tree in the forecourt to commemorate the ceremonial inauguration.

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, The Hon. John Graham, MLC, said:
“This new international airport forecourt will be the front door to Australia for millions of visitors. When they arrive, they will be greeted by this unique, new experience filled with Australian nature and art. It’s encouraging to see Sydney Airport investing in innovative projects like this that have created jobs and will enhance the tourism experience in NSW.”
Sydney’s Airport Forecourt Redevelopment
The T1 International Arrivals Forecourt has been designed, built, and maintained with First Nations viewpoints integrated throughout.
More than 12,200 native plants were planted across the courtyard by Wildflower Gardens for Good, an Indigenous-led not-for-profit company that offers meaningful work for persons who face hurdles to employment.
The staff is still taking care of the forecourt grounds, performing continuous maintenance and landscaping work.

Wildflower Gardens for Good board member, Jasmin Speedy, said:
“Being able to plant and care for the gardens in such a high-profile site is a source of pride for our young mob.”
“Creating native and sustainable gardens, caring for THE country and empowering our community are at the heart of what we do.
“It takes genuine support to make meaningful change and as one of our first major partners, we value our ongoing alliance with Sydney Airport.”
T1 International Arrivals Forecourt Partnerships
The Traditional Owners of Coastal Sydney’s language are honoured at Sydney Airport as well. cooperating with our steadfast partner, the Gujaga Foundation, who offered guidance on the Dharawal Language
- Forecourt architect – Hassell
- Building contractor – Ford Civil
- Civil and services design – ARUP
- Landscape contractors – Open Life Designs
- Landscapers/ongoing grounds maintenance – Wildflower Gardens for Good
- Identification of appropriate plants – Jiwah
- Dharawal language advice– Gujaga Foundation
- Wayfinding and signage – Maynard

Sydney Airport CEO, Geoff Culbert, concluded by saying:
“The inspiring team from Wildflower Gardens for Good have done an incredible job planting the native gardens and it’s a privilege to have them continue as custodians. We are proud to have an ongoing partnership with this First NATIONS-LED organisation that’s empowering youth through employment and strengthening our connection to THE country.”
What do you think of the New Airport Forecourt at Sydney’s T1 International Arrival Airport? Let us know in the comments below!