A New Gateway For Victoria’s Trade Future Takes Flight
Victoria has taken a major leap forward in freight and logistics with the official opening of Melbourne Avalon Airport’s brand-new $8 million freight processing facility, a milestone set to transform the way goods move in and out of the state.
Officially opened yesterday, Monday 27th October, by the Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Colin Brooks, the facility cements Melbourne Avalon Airport’s position as a critical player in Victoria’s freight network,supporting hundreds of jobs across cargo handling, warehousing, and distribution.
Capable of processing 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, a tenfold increase on previous capacity, the 24-hour facility introduces advanced scanning and screening technologies, making it one of the first airports in Australia to comply with new Australian Border Force security standards. This ensures faster freight turnaround times and enhanced international processing efficiency.
Beyond driving productivity, the new hub will service freight for major global events — including motorsport equipment for the Formula 1, MotoGP, and World Superbikes, as well as staging and production materials for the upcoming Lady Gaga concerts.
Located within the Greater Avalon Employment Precinct, the freight centre strengthens Melbourne Avalon Airport’s role as an economic powerhouse for Geelong and the across Victoria — contributing to a freight and logistics industry that employs more than 260,000 Victorians.
On the opening of the terminal, Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks noted “This new freight facility will be a game-changer for Victoria, speeding up deliveries and creating new job opportunities for the region.”
Ari Suss, CEO Melbourne Avalon Airport commented, “This new facility reflects the strong partnership between Melbourne Avalon Airport and the State Government in building the infrastructure that underpins Victoria’s trade and logistics future.”
About Melbourne Avalon Airport
Melbourne Avalon Airport is a vital infrastructure and economic asset, just 15km from Geelong and 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD. As Victoria’s second international airport, Melbourne Avalon Airport offers streamlined aviation services, low-cost fares, and high load factors, with Jetstar flights since 2004.
With 24/7 operations and a strong catchment of 3.3 million people, Avalon handles both passenger and freight services, welcoming B747s and Antonovs with runway capacity for direct international cargo connections to Asia, the Middle East, and the USA.
Beyond aviation, Avalon’s property precinct is home to national players like Cotton On, PetStock, Australia Post and Hanwha Defense, the latter forming part of Australia’s newest defence manufacturing base.
About Melbourne Avalon Airport – Airfreight Terminal
