Everything You Need To Know About Brisbane Airport’s $5 Billion Transformation
Dinushka Gunasekara
Brisbane Editor | Urban List
Feeling like the Brisbane Airport is always under construction? Yep, we get that. And while the delays and constant changes (check in is where now?) are less than ideal, it certainly helps to know it’s all part of the big picture—one that connects Brisbane to the rest of the world in state-of-the-art style.
The Future BNE $5 billion investment marks a whopping transformation designed to completely revolutionise your travel experience. From modernising key infrastructure to major refurbishments and streamlining the security process, the coming decade will play a truly pivotal part in the history of Brisbane Airport. It also couldn’t be more timely, preparing Brisbane for 2032 and beyond; with the population of Brisbane expected to grow by 43% by 2041.
Wheel’s up, here’s everything you need to know:
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Domestic Terminal Precinct
Image credit: Brisbane Airport | Website
Hassle-free travel for interstate trips? Say less. Over in the Domestic Terminal security upgrades will see safer and simpler screening processes for passengers, including direct access from the Skywalk for checked-in passengers with carry-on baggage and new baggage screening equipment (yep, that means your laptop can stay in your bag).
Got baggage (don’t we all)? No worries, because the Domestic Terminal Self Check-In is well underway, with the installation of new Automatic Bag Drop equipment and check-in kiosks to simplify your journey. In fact, this will start from the moment you arrive at the airport, thanks to the 1,700+ new parking bays created with the P2 multistorey carpark expansion—giving you a safe and secure place to leave your vehicle, rain, hail or shine.
The Domestic Terminal’s baggage system is also being completely re-built with world-class technology—taking the three separate baggage systems originally installed in the 80s and streamlining them into a centralised checked baggage operation for easier and speedier processing, while also enhancing security and reliability.
Bathrooms will feature improved design with sustainability a key focus, as well as new carpet inspired by Queensland’s beaches, environmentally friendly spotted gum hardwood timber, and more recycled materials throughout the terminal. This green charge is even reflected in Brisbane Airport’s airside vehicle fleet, which will be more than 70% electric by 2026 to significantly reduce emissions.
International Terminal Precinct
Image credit: Brisbane Airport | Website
In the most significant upgrade to the terminal since opening in 1995, Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal is set to revolutionalise the passenger experience over the next decade.
For the first time ever, McDonald’s, Hungry Jacks and KFC will be serving passengers at the International Terminal—part of 13 new and refurbished food and beverage outlets opening soon. This includes a Mediterranean-inspired lobby bar concept Manna, grab-and-go Liv Eat and Sushi Jiro kiosks, Asian eatery Noodles XO, a specialty Merlo Cafe and an exciting new bar concept. Plus, if coffee is the only thing on your mind once your boarding pass is in hand, you’ll be pleased to know that Brisbane coffee favourite Bellissimo will be joining the mix, while long-time go-to Windmill & Co returns with a fresh new look and elevated menu.
The International Terminal is also set to welcome Brisbane Airport’s largest restaurant precinct, serving up a diverse mix of well-known and much-loved brands. The Dining Precinct spans almost 1,000 square metres and will be home to an artisan bakery, gourmet deli, specialty coffee shop, an all-day bar and restaurant, and a full-service cocktail and raw bar. There will also be a curated selection of Mexican, Asian, and Greek-inspired eateries so you can feast around the world before take off.
Image credit: McDonald's | Supplied
Meanwhile, in the Arrivals Hall, local icon Kuhl-Cher Cafe will be opening two locations for their signature brews and laidback vibes—perfect for those waiting to pick up their loved ones. McDonald’s is scheduled to open in late December, with more new openings to follow throughout 2026. All 13 new outlets are expected to be fully delivered by 2027.
On the technical side, new self-service check-in areas, easy-to-use kiosks, and automated bag drops will equal less time in the queue. That means you get more time for shopping—and trust us, you’ll need it. With 31 new retail opportunities by 2027 and an expanded duty free area set to nearly double in size, the upgrade will include innovative design, a focus on local brands and sustainability, and a better shopping experience for you.
Rest Of The Airport
Outside of the existing terminals, more projects are underway to help Brisbane fly above the rest. The most exciting? Plans for a new, third passenger terminal to meet future population growth, improve Brisbane’s connectivity and provide an accessible, efficient, and inclusive passenger journey—set to be built for the 2030s.
Construction has also kicked off for a new Aeromedical Precinct; connecting more regional, rural and remote Queenslanders to major hospitals and life-saving 24/7 medical care. The innovative world-class hub includes new patient transfer facilities to provide the best clinical care possible while they’re on the move, accommodating both fixed and rotary wing aircrafts.
For more details on Future BNE, head to the official hub here.
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Main image credit: Brisbane Airport | Website