The airport upgrade that will put this Australian city on the map – realestate.com.au

The opening of a new international terminal has long been in the making for a region poised for “a serious increase in buyer interest”.

Newcastle Airport officially opened its upgraded international terminal at the end of September 2025 – a move that will see direct flights to Bali begin at the end of October.

The airport is just 25 minutes from Newcastle’s CBD and has long been a vital link for the Hunter region. Under construction since 2023, the $110 million terminal means residents will soon have easy access to overseas destinations and provide a gateway to the rest of the world.

Brad Wallace, managing director of Raine & Horne Commercial Newcastle, said the international expansion is a pivotal moment for the Hunter region.

“There is no doubt that international flights and high-speed rail between Sydney and Newcastle will drive demand, not just in Newcastle, but across the Hunter region,” Wallace said.

“It is already easier and more relaxing to fly from Williamtown than from Mascot. Add international flights and we are seeing a serious increase in interest from property buyers in our region.”

The city must grow with this increased interest. Several new estates in the surrounding areas are accommodating Newcastle’s population growth and providing easy access to Newcastle Airport. Here are some developments in the area.

The Stables

Located just 15 minutes from Newcastle Airport, The Stables Estate by Australis Properties is positioned for buyers looking for a balance of city, coastal and country living.

Fully equipped plots range from 500 m² to 885 m² with facades between 15 and 27 meters. The location places residents 30 minutes from Newcastle’s CBD, 30 minutes to the beaches of Port Stephens, 15 minutes to Newcastle University, 40 minutes to the Hunter Valley and less than two hours to Sydney.

Sophia Waters

Further west in Chisholm, Sophia Waters of Allam Property Group offers more than 900 plots ranging from 400 to 800 sqm, utilizing elevated position and open space with extensive landscaping.

Several new estates offer easy access to Newcastle Airport. Image: realestate.com.au

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The estate is located between Raymond Terrace and Maitland, and also a short drive from Newcastle Airport. Nearby amenities include the new Maitland Hospital and various community facilities. Maitland Council has proposed future playing fields, walking and cycling trails within the estate, increasing its appeal to families and active buyers.

Waterford

Also in Chisholm is Waterford, an AVID Property Group master-planned community designed for both natural and connected living.

Less than 30 minutes from Newcastle Airport, the new Woodhaven lots range from 570 to 900 sq m and are within walking distance of parks, reserves and future sports fields. Residents also have access to 7km of walking and cycling trails, a café, two kindergartens, a primary school and a secondary school.

Plans for the upcoming Chisholm Plaza include supermarkets, more cafes, a swimming school and a gym.

Its strategic location makes it easy to travel to Newcastle and Maitland by train, or by road via the Pacific Highway, New England Highway and the Hunter Expressway.

Are you interested in finding estates near you? Visit our New houses section.