The proposition to purchase the land is a key part of the Newcastle Airport 20-year Master Plan and proposed development of a business technology precinct alongside the Airport.

The land is essential to secure the future air transport needs of the Greater Hunter region, and ensures that Newcastle Airport will be the airport the region deserves for generations to come. The purchase also opens opportunities to capitalise on the core strengths of the region in terms of defence aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

The Airport already has a strong focus on supporting aviation and defence industries with tenants such as BAE Systems and Jetstar. The new precinct will serve as a focal point for sustainment of the new F35 Joint Strike Fighter jets and will provide the ability locally to sustain other platforms. It will also include an innovation hub for new defence and aerospace-related research, manufacturing and businesses in the region, which continue to cluster around the Airport, as well as non-aviation related industries such as education, technology, mining and tourism operations.

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer described the Council resolution as a significant and exciting proposition.

“The decision is about the bigger picture for the Airport and the Hunter. This expansion could potentially allow for the growth of our region as a truly world-class tourism destination and business hub. I am proud that Port Stephens Council was able to support the land purchase proposal that takes a step toward further future-proofing the facility and progressing the development of the whole aerospace precinct. Critically, expansion of the Airport could potentially mean more local jobs and improved facilities for members of our community that use the Newcastle Airport each day," Mayor Palmer said.

Port Stephens Council resolved to proceed with the land acquisition of Lot 11 DP 1036501 and Lot 3 DP 1036690 at the Ordinary Council Meeting dated 24 April 2018.

Newcastle City Council resolved to proceed with land acquisition of Lot 11 DP 1036501 and Lot 3 DP 1036690 at the Ordinary Council Meeting dated 1 May 2018.