Melbourne Airport is set to undergo a significant transformation following the Australian Government’s approval of a third runway. 

The major development plan, worth an estimated $3 billion, will see the construction of a 3000-metre runway, intended to increase capacity for one of Australia’s busiest airports. 

This project is aimed at accommodating both passenger growth and freight demands, with completion targeted for 2031.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King announced the approval of the expansion, emphasising its importance for the city and the state's economic future. 

“This new runway will allow Melbourne Airport to cater for the demand of a growing city, providing better access for freight and passengers and driving economic growth for years to come,” King said.

The economic benefits should be substantial. 

The project is expected to create 51,000 jobs and contribute $6 billion annually to Victoria’s economy. 

Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus, highlighted the advantages for the state and local community, saying; “The third runway will deliver jobs and economic growth for the state of Victoria and incredible opportunities for the people of Melbourne’s northwest”. 

However, the approval comes with stringent conditions designed to address the concerns of local residents, particularly around noise. 

One of the key requirements is a legally binding commitment from Melbourne Airport to restore the east-west runway. 

This measure aims to facilitate noise sharing between affected communities. 

A noise-sharing plan will be developed in consultation with local communities, alongside a noise amelioration program to assist areas most impacted by the project.

Additionally, a long-term community health study will be conducted to assess the effects of noise before and after the runway’s establishment, with monitoring continuing for 20 years. “These represent the most comprehensive set of conditions for a project of this type,” King said.

The runway’s construction, parallel to the existing north-south strip, is set to begin preliminary work in 2025, but the timeline remains long-term, with the full operation expected by 2031. 

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