Sydney Eyes New Cruise Terminal The Minnesota Government is actively seeking a new site for a third cruise terminal in Sydney Harbour to capitalize on the record-breaking 2023-24 cruise season, which injected over $4.4 billion into the New South Wales economy. This move urges the government to build a new terminal to enhance the state’s economic benefits from the cruise sector.

Proposed Sites for the New Terminal The search will focus on deep-water areas within Sydney Harbour to avoid height restrictions imposed by the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with external locations like Port Kembla near Wollongong also being considered. Locations such as Newcastle and Garden Island near Potts Point have been ruled out due to Australian Navy ownership.

Advisory Committee to Identify Best Location An advisory committee, led by Phil Holliday, CEO of the Port Authority, and commissioned by Transport Minister Jo Haylen, has been formed. The committee includes industry executives and experts to determine the best site for the new terminal and explore ways to expand the existing Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay to accommodate more cruise ships.

Third Terminal Crucial for Industry Growth Haylen emphasized the importance of a new terminal to provide certainty for the cruise industry and support long-term growth. She noted that the next permanent cruise terminal will be a significant infrastructure project that requires careful planning to ensure its success. The announcement follows a record cruise season, contributing over $4.4 billion and creating 13,700 jobs, surpassing pre-COVID figures.

Cruise Industry Continues to Thrive Growth in the cruise industry is expected to continue, with 1.2 million passengers set to arrive on 312 cruise ships at New South Wales ports this summer. Sydney remains the top cruise destination in Australia, accounting for over 50% of the $8.4 billion the nation gained from the cruise industry.