The Chris Minns Labor Government will invest $12.5 million as part of the 2025-2026 state budget to create the NSW Take Off Fund to secure more flights and grow the visitor economy across the state.

The NSW Take Off Fund will support efforts to boost airline seat capacity by 8.5 million seats in the coming years, ensuring the state remains competitive in the global race for air routes and visitor markets.

The funding will provide financial and marketing support to international and domestic routes that commit to launching new or additional services into NSW.

 “This is how we grow our visitor economy – by increasing airline capacity and unlocking new international markets for NSW,” says NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper.

“More seats mean more visitors, and that means a stronger tourism sector, stronger regions and more jobs.

“This fund will ensure NSW remains a top destination for travellers and a top partner for airlines around the world.”

NSW airport bosses are excited about the proposal.

“This new round of aviation funding will help unlock flight capacity and welcome more international visitors to Australia’s premier gateway,” says Scott Charlton, CEO, Sydney Airport.

“Every dollar invested into aviation attraction at Sydney Airport generates a $9 return, with a typical international service supporting 1200 full-time jobs and delivering $130 million in annual economic benefit.”

Western Sydney International Airport CEO Simon Hickey believes the fund will support active discussions with airlines about flying into Sydney’s new 24-hour international gateway, which will open in 2026.

“This investment from the government will strengthen those discussions and help bring greater connectivity for Australia’s global city, which means more choice for travellers and a more vibrant tourism economy, creating growth and terrific job opportunities across the industry,” he says.

Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton is equally pleased with the funding announcement.

“With our international terminal fully operational from August 2025, we are working closely with Destination NSW to deliver on our promise to be the airport our region deserves, and secure new international services that will boost visitation and deliver lasting benefits to the Hunter region and beyond,” he says.

Photo at top: iStock/SCM Jeans.