Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) and Western Sydney University have formalised their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create education, training, and job opportunities for Western Sydney residents ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026.
This partnership builds on existing collaborations between WSI and the University, which have already provided students with internships and hands-on research opportunities. The MoU seeks to expand these initiatives to support the region’s workforce development, focusing on aviation, technology, advanced manufacturing, and other key industries.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said:Western Sydney is in the midst of an incredible transformation, with the airport a major catalyst for broad infrastructure investment and significant job creation that will generate bigger and better career opportunities for students today and for generations to come.
Strengthening our partnership with the University is an important way we can help more young people during their journeys to study, up-skill or start their first job – whether it’s in aviation, science, technology, advanced manufacturing or other diverse industries in Western Sydney.
Currently, over half of the 3,500 workers involved in constructing the airport are from Western Sydney, with 30% classified as “learning” workers, including trainees, apprentices, and graduates.
As the airport approaches its operational phase, thousands of additional jobs are expected to be created across its precincts, including domestic and international terminals and cargo facilities.
Western Sydney University Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO said:The collaboration with WSI provides a key platform to enhance the education, research, and innovation connections needed to maximise the airport’s potential. This is vital not only for the airport’s development but also for the lasting benefits it can bring to the Western Sydney region.
Beyond the substantial jobs boost created through the construction phase, the jobs and skills development opportunities that will emerge from the airport’s operations will be critical for the region. These opportunities will provide local residents with better access to employment and be a key driver of regional growth.
