Brisbane, 19 September 2025 – Brisbane’s future as Australia’s gateway to the Asia-Pacific was the focus of Wednesday’s BNE Enterprise Business Breakfast, where leaders from aviation, business and economic development outlined the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Brisbane Airport Corporation’s Head of Airport Planning, Michael Jarvis, said the Preliminary Draft 2026 Master Plan prepares the precinct for passenger numbers to double from 25 million today to more than 52 million by 2046.
“Construction will begin next year on the first stage of a third terminal. It’s not just about building bigger facilities — it’s about delivering smarter, seamless experiences for passengers, freight and the 500 businesses based on airport,” Mr Jarvis said.
“We also need transport choice — Metro, active transport and road links — to connect the precinct properly into the city.”
Mr Jarvis confirmed the Airport has already reached Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions. “The challenge now is aviation fuel. Queensland is uniquely positioned to lead the world in Sustainable Aviation Fuel and hydrogen innovation.”
Brisbane Economic Development Agency CEO, Anthony Ryan, emphasised the precinct’s role in global trade.
“Brisbane handles 95 per cent of Queensland’s air freight — yet we still lag Sydney and Melbourne in dedicated cargo services. The time has come for Brisbane to get its fair share,” Mr Ryan said.
“With direct connections into markets like India, and new industries like green steel and quantum computing growing here, Brisbane can become a global innovation hub as well as a tourism city.”
Heidi Cooper, CEO of Business Chamber Queensland, said rising confidence across Queensland must be matched with action on workforce.
“Skills shortages remain the number one constraint for business,” Ms Cooper said.
“We need faster, more flexible training pathways, smarter migration settings, and workplace laws that let employers adapt as AI and automation reshape jobs. The businesses we’ve surveyed are clear — human skills and technical skills are now equally valued.”
All three leaders pointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games as a catalyst.
“The Master Plan isn’t just about aviation,” Mr Jarvis concluded. “It’s about shaping a thriving part of Brisbane’s economy, where visitors, workers and locals can all benefit.”
BNE Enterprise Director Douglas Pye said the breakfast exemplified the organisation’s mission to connect business leaders, foster meaningful partnerships, and help position Brisbane’s airport precinct as a powerhouse for Queensland’s economic future.
“Our members are deeply invested in how this growth story unfolds,” he said.
“Events like this bring together the right people, at the right time, to ensure Brisbane’s transformation is collaborative, inclusive and built to last.”