EVALUATION COMPLETE
The Western Sydney Airport fuel pipeline proposal addresses the need for efficient, high-capacity fuel supply to support the operation and growth of Western Sydney Airport. Delivery of the proposal would enable a modal shift from road tanker deliveries to pipeline transport. The proposal aligns with both the Infrastructure Policy Statement and the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, which emphasise the need for productivity-enhancing infrastructure to strengthen supply chain resilience, reduce congestion and support long-term economic growth.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
The Western Sydney Airport fuel pipeline proposal seeks to preserve a corridor and then develop a fuel pipeline connecting Western Sydney Airport to the Sydney fuel pipeline network, enabling safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation of jet fuel at scale. In the absence of dedicated fuel pipeline infrastructure, the airport would require an estimated 50 to 65 B-double fuel tanker deliveries per day via Sydney’s road network, creating significant operational challenges.
INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 year pipeline.
OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES
This proposal has the potential to:
- Ease congestion pressures and improve safety – by shifting fuel supply from road tankers to pipeline, the proposal would support a reduction in heavy vehicle movements on Sydney’s urban road network and within the airport precinct, alleviating pressure on key freight corridors and enhancing safety for both freight and passenger transport.
- Support sustainable growth and productivity – a dedicated fuel pipeline would provide a reliable, high-capacity supply of jet fuel, underpinning the long-term growth of Western Sydney Airport, ensuring the airport can meet future aviation demand efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Deliver environmental benefits – transitioning fuel transport from road to pipeline would support a reduction in vehicle emissions and fuel consumption, contributing to improved air quality and supporting broader sustainability objectives.
NEXT STEPS
Proponent to progress development of potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework), including:
- identifying and preserving the preferred corridor for a fuel pipeline connection
- engaging with stakeholders, including airport operators, and fuel suppliers, to ensure alignment and support
- assessing environmental impacts and undertaking constructability reviews to de-risk delivery.