Avalon Airport Set to Become Australia’s Next Major International Gateway: A Game-Changer for Tourism and Economic Growth in Victoria

Published on December 19, 2025

In anticipation of the 2026 Victorian Election, leaders from Greater Geelong and Wyndham City have united to advocate for substantial investment in Avalon Airport and its surrounding industrial precinct. Through a collaborative effort between the City of Greater Geelong, the City of Wyndham, Committee for Geelong, Committee for Wyndham, and the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, the campaign aims to unlock Avalon’s full potential as Victoria’s second international airport. The goal is to enhance Victoria’s global aviation connectivity, driving tourism growth and bolstering regional economic development.

Avalon Airport: Victoria’s Second International Gateway

Founded in 1953, Avalon Airport has evolved into a vital aviation hub, serving as a regional center for both passenger flights and logistics. Its strategic location and ability to accommodate large aircraft position it to play a key role in the state’s aviation future. The airport’s expansion into international flights is a crucial step in Victoria’s broader tourism and aviation development.

Starting in March 2026, Avalon Airport will begin welcoming international flights, with Jetstar introducing direct services to Bali. This move marks a pivotal moment for Avalon, making it an essential part of the state’s growing international flight network. With direct access to key destinations like Bali, Avalon Airport is set to become a major gateway for international tourism, enhancing the region’s attractiveness to global travelers.

Strategic Investment for International Connectivity

The call for targeted investment from the Victorian Government is centered on making Avalon Airport Victoria’s second major international airport. The proposal aims to attract new airlines and establish additional flight routes, boosting Avalon’s connectivity to key international destinations. To facilitate these advancements, a three-year matched funding program is proposed, supported by a private-public partnership that would ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to meet growing demand.

An essential aspect of this vision is the development of Avalon’s surrounding Avalon Employment Precinct, an industrial hub that can grow into a key logistics and freight center. This expansion would enhance Avalon’s role as both an international aviation hub and a center for industry, driving tourism, trade, and employment. A proposed $1 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund would support the development of critical infrastructure, making Avalon a key asset in the region’s long-term economic growth.

Infrastructure Development for Enhanced Air Travel

In addition to the airport itself, the surrounding infrastructure is vital for unlocking Avalon Airport’s full potential. To enhance access, a major upgrade to Beach Road is proposed, improving the connection between the M1, the airport, and its commercial precinct. These improvements would provide smoother access for both travelers and logistics operations, ensuring that the airport can handle increased passenger traffic and freight movement.

Looking further ahead, the long-term goal is the establishment of the Avalon Airport Rail Link, which would connect the airport to Melbourne and other regional areas, offering travelers a seamless and efficient way to reach the airport. This rail connection would provide additional transportation options for both domestic and international passengers, making Avalon a more accessible and attractive destination for tourists and business travelers alike.

Avalon’s Role in Victoria’s Tourism Recovery

Avalon Airport has already demonstrated its importance in supporting Victoria’s tourism sector, particularly through its role in the Australian International Airshow. This biennial event attracts over 195,000 attendees and showcases advancements in aerospace and defense technology. As Avalon prepares to expand its international flight offerings, its role as a key player in the state’s tourism infrastructure will continue to grow.

The expansion of Avalon Airport’s international services is expected to bring significant benefits to regional tourism, providing easier access for international visitors to explore the attractions of Greater Geelong and Wyndham City. These regions are known for their natural beauty, including the Great Ocean Road, Geelong’s waterfront, and a variety of wineries and cultural experiences. With more international travelers flying directly into Avalon, the area’s tourism industry stands to receive a significant boost, benefiting local businesses and driving job creation across the region.

A Vision for Growth: Job Creation and Regional Prosperity

The transformation of Avalon Airport into a major international gateway represents more than just a boost to tourism; it is a catalyst for job creation and regional economic development. With Avalon’s expansion, thousands of new jobs could be created, not only within the airport but also in the surrounding industrial and tourism sectors. Local businesses would benefit from increased foot traffic and tourism spending, while the region would see improved logistics capabilities, supporting industries both in Victoria and beyond.

The City of Greater Geelong Mayor, Stretch Kontelj, has emphasized the need for Avalon to create new employment opportunities and increase the state’s capacity for tourism and freight. Similarly, the City of Wyndham Mayor, Josh Gilligan, highlighted how Avalon would provide the connectivity required to help the region keep pace with Australia’s fastest-growing areas. Leaders from both the Committee for Geelong and Committee for Wyndham have stressed that the right investment in Avalon will not only support aviation and freight but also foster innovation and industry growth across the entire region.

The Future of Avalon Airport: Global Connectivity and Competitive Edge

With the right investment in Avalon Airport, the facility could emerge as a key player in the global aviation and tourism sectors. The proposed infrastructure upgrades and the development of Avalon’s surrounding precinct will provide the region with enhanced global connectivity, making it an increasingly competitive destination for both international tourism and trade. Avalon’s growth as a major international airport would be a defining moment in Victoria’s aviation history, strengthening the state’s global competitiveness and attracting new industries and international visitors.

The vision for Avalon Airport’s future reflects the broader goal of ensuring that regional Victoria thrives alongside metropolitan Melbourne. With strategic investment and development, Avalon has the potential to become a cornerstone of Victoria’s tourism infrastructure, driving economic growth, job creation, and global connectivity for years to come.

Looking Forward: Avalon Airport’s Promising Future

As Avalon Airport sets its sights on becoming Victoria’s second major international airport, the need for investment and strategic development has never been clearer. The commitment of local leaders, business groups, and the Victorian Government will be essential in unlocking Avalon’s full potential. With international flights on the horizon, Avalon is poised to become a key tourism and logistics hub, creating long-term benefits for the entire region.

[Image Credit: City Of Greater Geelong]