Watson Farley & Williams (“WFW”) is pleased to mark the opening of Western Sydney International Airport (“WSI”), one of Australia’s largest and most significant infrastructure developments, on 26 October 2026.
Seven years ago, WFW advised ZHA Architects (“ZHA”) on its successful joint venture bid with local partner Cox Architects for the design contract for the terminal precinct and interior of the new airport. WFW advised ZHA on its appointment by the Western Sydney Airport Company, the contracting body established to deliver the airport by the Australian federal government.
The A$5.3bn project represents one of Australia’s most significant infrastructure developments in decades. Designed to operate as a 24-hour international gateway, the airport is expected to handle up to 10m passengers annually at opening, with long-term expansion plans targeting up to 82 million passengers per year. The wider programme has also included substantial investment in rail, road and logistics infrastructure, helping establish a major new economic hub for Western Sydney.
The opening highlights WFW’s continued involvement in complex international infrastructure projects and its long-standing expertise supporting clients throughout the lifecycle of major developments, from procurement and contract negotiation through to project delivery and operation.
The WFW London team that advised ZHA on its successful appointment was led by Construction Partner Barry Hembling. Partner Christina Howard advised on corporate aspects of the transaction. Dispute Resolution Partner Alexander Creswick and Associate Emily Sadie also advised.
Barry commented: “It’s immensely rewarding to see Western Sydney International Airport preparing to welcome its first passengers. We advised ZHA Architects on the design appointment at the outset of the project, and it is exciting to see that vision become reality. Large infrastructure projects are measured in years, and this project is a reminder of the importance of establishing strong contractual and commercial foundations from the very beginning. We are proud to have played a part in one of the most significant transport infrastructure projects delivered in Australia in recent years”.
