Industry Update - Quarter 2, 2025

Message from the CEO – Ken Morrison

It’s an exciting time at Bradfield as we make great strides in delivering Australia’s first new city in 100 years.

Since our last update, we’ve shifted from planning to a strong delivery phase with incredible progress. We’ve opened the First Building, announced an important commercial deal to lay the digital foundations for the city, and the city’s core infrastructure is well advanced.

Bradfield’s First Building has also received national recognition for its iconic design, winning the Premier’s Prize at the 2025 NSW Architecture Awards, alongside nominations and wins in several industry awards.

At the heart of our innovation precinct is the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF), which has comenced operations and is advancing industry growth in the region.

Momentum in the broader Aerotropolis is also continuing strongly, with $27 billion in Government infrastructure investment and more than $14.8 billion in the private planning pipeline.

Over the past few months, we’ve welcomed local and international delegations from across business, industry, and government keen to learn more about the scale of development underway in the region and the strategic role Bradfield will play in Western Sydney’s economic future.

We’re looking forward to releasing more opportunities to the market in coming months, ready for investors to become part of Bradfield’s exciting origin story.

Ken Morrison
Chief Executive Officer
Bradfield Development Authority

Read the complete Industry Update online or read the stories below.

Delivering Bradfield City

Digital Infrastructure partner appointed

Superloop, in partnership with OneWiFi, will deliver cutting-edge digital infrastructure for Bradfield City.

Announced by Deputy Premier Prue Car and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, the commercial deal will equip Bradfield with high-capacity fibre, ultra-fast connectivity, and comprehensive mobile coverage - creating a fully digital precinct from day one.

Free public Wi-Fi in streets and parks will further enhance accessibility for residents and visitors.

Multi-Function Poles with CCTV cameras, electric bike charging, environmental sensors and banner space for public art, will provide convenience and safety.

This foundational infrastructure positions Bradfield to attract and support high-tech industries, driving innovation and investment for decades to come.

Read the Ministerial release.

Bradfield and Liverpool City Council formalise strategic partnership

Bradfield Development Authority and Liverpool City Council recently marked a key milestone in the development of Bradfield City, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

CEO Ken Morrison and Mayor Ned Mannoun formalised the agreement at Bradfield’s First Building, joined by Councillors and representatives from both organisations.

The MoU will guide collaboration on local infrastructure and service delivery as Bradfield evolves, while maximising public and private investment across Bradfield and the broader Liverpool region.

Read more about the MoU here.

First Building recognised for innovative design

Bradfield’s First Building continues to impress, recently recognised in a number of industry awards, including receiving the prestigious Premier’s Prize at the recent 2025 NSW Architecture Awards.

Premier Chris Minns praised the project, stating, “A new city requires a big dream … it’s incredibly exciting to see that dream taking shape here in Bradfield.”

The building also received an Award for Sustainable Architecture and a Commendation for Commercial Architecture.

The First Building has been recognised in multiple industry awards, including:

• Winner: Outstanding Innovation Project, Boomtown Awards 2024, Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue
• Shortlisted: Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards 2025
• Shortlisted: Sustainability, Urban Developer Awards for Industry Excellence 2025
• Finalist: Biophilic Design Awards 2025
• Shortlisted: Civic Landscape and Small Projects, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects Awards 2025
• Finalist: Sustainability, UDIA Awards 2025
• Finalist: Government Projects, 2025 Project Management Achievement Awards, AIPM
   

The accolades reflect the fantastic vision and collaboration with Authority partners Hassell, Djinjama, Dharug Traditional Custodians, NSW Public Works, and Taylor.

Civil works update

Bradfield City’s civils works are nearing completion, ready to support future development in the city with land lots enabled with in-ground potable, recycled, and wastewater systems, as well as electrical and fibre networks.

Funded by NSW Government and delivered by Western Sydney company WEM, the enabling works are also delivering 4 km of roads, 8 km of bike paths, on-street parking for 178 cars, 4 kiss-and-ride points, 3 taxi bays, and 2 bus bays near Bradfield Metro Station.

The roads, cycleways, and pedestrian paths are receiving a green transformation, with 180 mature trees and 5,600 native plants contributing to an impressive tree canopy cover and green environment in Bradfield.

Upcoming projects

Bradfield’s development continues, with the State Significant Development Applications (SSDAs) for Bradfield's iconic 2-hectare Central Park and Second Building now approved.

A welcoming public space in the heart of the city next door to the Bradfield Metro Station, Central Park will provide important early green, open space for workers, residents, and visitors to gather, play, and relax.

Second Building will house Stage 2 of the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF), with a focus on semiconductor packaging and advanced micro-electronics. The AMRF will accelerate innovation in industry and is a key feature of the economic development strategy underpinning Bradfield.

Second Building and Central Park both play a critical role in providing the social and economic infrastructure for Bradfield’s emerging industry ecosystem. 

First land release - Superlot 1

With strong interest from leading developers and investors, Bradfield’s first land release, Superlot 1 is progressing toward the appointment of a delivery partner.

Strategically located in the heart of Bradfield, this 4.8-hectare site will unlock up to 237,000 sqm of GFA, transforming into a vibrant, sustainable, mixed-use precinct.

Superlot 1 will include:

• A minimum of 1,000 apartments, including 10% affordable housing
• Education and research facilities that reinforce Bradfield’s role in innovation and enterprise
• Dedicated commercial spaces, including a hotel
• A mix of retail, dining and lifestyle offerings
  
  Targeted for late 2025, the appointment of a delivery partner will mark a major milestone for the Authority, which we look forward to sharing with you soon.

Industry tours at Bradfield

The Authority has been busy welcoming groups from across business, industry, and Government keen to leave more about the opportunities at Australia’s first new city in 100 years.

This has included:
 

• ST Engineering
• Tokyo Electric Power Company
• Nikon Corporation
• Hitachi High-Tech in Singapore
• Daikin Australia
• OMRON
• Space Machines Company
• Contour 3D
• Vitex Pharmaceuticals
• Romar Engineering
• GPC Electronics
• AiGroup supplier delegation
• NSW Innovation and Productivity Council
• Property Council of Australia members
• Business Western Sydney members
• Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue members
• NSW Trade and Investment Commissioners to ASEAN nations
• Consulate-General of Vietnam in Sydney
• Consulate-General of Japan in Sydney
• Cambodian Ministerial and Ambassador delegation
• Office of Japan Governor of Chiba Prefecture
• Business Finland representatives
• Destination NSW
• BE Sydney
   

Discussions focused on Bradfield’s role in advancing NSW Government priorities and fostering future collaboration in advanced manufacturing and innovation.

Bradfield at Green Building Day 2025

Bradfield’s First Building was showcased at the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Building Day 2025 in Sydney, highlighting its leadership in sustainable design.

Presentations included:
 

• Circular design innovation by the Authority’s Karen Shaw and Hassell’s Jeff Morgan
• Air quality and building performance insights from CETEC’s Adam Garnys
• Case study inclusion in GBCA’s A Practical Guide to Circular Procurement
• Launch of Australia’s Waste(d) Opportunity 2025 benchmarking report by Coreo, GBCA, BDA, and CEFC
   

Bradfield’s ambitious commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles will inform the future of the city as it evolves over time. Read more about our Sustainability and Resilience Strategy.

Help shape the future of Bradfield City

Business leaders, investors, and partners are invited to participate in a short survey to help guide the development of Bradfield City.

Your insights will inform how we build a thriving, connected business ecosystem. 

• Influence the future of Australia’s newest city
• Support innovation and industry growth
• Help shape tailored solutions for business

Interested in more?

Click here to participate in the survey.

AMRF Update

Australian Manufacturing Week 2025

In May 2025, the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility, in collaboration with Investment NSW, had a strong presence at Australian Manufacturing Week in Melbourne. AMRF’s cutting-edge technology, expertise, and unique offerings were prominently showcased at a joint stand. The stand was a hub of activity, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with industry experts from both organisations, as well as the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Over four days the AMRF team connected with thousands of industry professionals and hosted a sold-out networking night, engaging in many meaningful conversations about the future of manufacturing in Australia. A highlight of the display was a precision-engineered submarine valve, a demonstration of the capability of Australia’s first advanced manufacturing development centre. Attendees also had the chance to connect directly with the AMRF team, learning about their collaborative approach to problem-solving and commitment to skills development within the industry.

The stand also offered an immersive virtual reality experience of Bradfield City. This offered a captivating glimpse into the future of Australia's newest city and its thriving advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
 

Championing women's pathways into advanced manufacturing

The AMRF is expanding its role in building a future-ready workforce by actively supporting women’s entry into advanced manufacturing. Through its collaboration with Western Sydney Women, AMRF has contributed to the delivery of the Jobs of the Future program, which provides participants with practical exposure to the industry and aims to strengthen diversity and capability across this vital sector.

As part of the program, AMRF hosted an immersive industry experience on 31 March that introduced participants to the principles and practice of advanced manufacturing. The event featured a comprehensive tour of the facility, hands-on activities including a ply cutter demonstration, and a group project focused on problem-solving and collaboration. A panel discussion with experienced professionals from the sector offered further insight into career pathways and the opportunities available within the industry. This experience served as a foundational element of the broader program and helped establish a meaningful connection between participants and the advanced manufacturing environment.

Following the conclusion of the program, and in recognition of International Women in Engineering Day on 23 June, AMRF hosted the graduation ceremony with support from Microsoft. The event celebrated the achievements of the participants, who completed the program with a deeper understanding of the sector, practical industry experience, and newly developed professional networks. Their success highlights the increasing strength and diversity of Western Sydney’s talent pipeline.

As advanced manufacturing continues to evolve, AMRF remains focused on supporting sustainable workforce development that reflects the needs and potential of the region. By fostering inclusive engagement and strategic partnerships, AMRF is helping to build a skilled and resilient industrial ecosystem prepared for future growth.

OMRON partnership

A Memorandum of Understanding was recently signed between the AMRF and Japanese automation leader OMRON to foster knowledge exchange and promote the adoption of advanced technologies, supporting growth and productivity in Western Sydney’s manufacturing sector and driving long-term economic benefits for the region.

Committed to work together to promote knowledge sharing and the use of innovative technologies in Western Sydney, BDA Chair Jennifer Westacott AO and CEO Ken Morrison met with OMRON Industrial Automation Global President Motohiro Yamanishi and Oceania Managing Director Henry Zhou to formalise the agreement.

Submarine valve project

Noticing inefficiencies in traditional defence supply chains, the team at the AMRF set out to demonstrate a local manufacturing solution that would maintain performance, safety, and certification standards. The challenge they gave themselves: could a component typically cast overseas be produced entirely in-house using advanced manufacturing methods?

The team reverse-engineered the 8-inch globe valve and produced it from a solid billet of duplex stainless steel, applying generative design tools to build a full manufacturing workflow. The outcome was a fully machined valve housing that met or exceeded defence performance standards and was delivered months faster than traditional castings.

This success highlights AMRF’s integrated approach to advanced manufacturing, where design and production operate seamlessly under one roof. While developed for submarine sustainment, the project demonstrates broader potential for supporting mission-critical sectors through rapid, sovereign manufacturing capability.

To learn more, view the full video below.

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Video transcript

Submarine Valve Demonstrator - AMRF Success Story

James Stokes

How fast can you look at a problem find a solution and then actually start implementing it with then a product coming out at the end of it is essentially what we were trying to target.

Maegan Baker

The submarine case study is definitely an example of how the AMRF can bring a whole bunch of expertise together, help manufacturers de-risk, innovate and scale.

Steve Milanoski

To me it's just a really interesting challenge, which is we have these manufacturing techniques that have existed for a very long time that we're reliant on, that probably haven't gotten the amount of attention they've deserved over the last couple decades

James Stokes

Typically these kind of marine valves - the design of them - has stayed pretty stagnant as it's been linked to kind of casting methodologies for manufacturing them, and so when we were looking at it from, you know using the tools within the AMRF, we found that there was potential to really decrease your time to market. But that required adapting the design so then you could actually manufacture it as quick as possible.

Niraj Shah

So we wanted to achieve at least equal performance to the traditional wall but make it easy to manufacture.

Steve Milanoski

Turns out that valve housings are in massive demand, not just for defence applications, but there's a direct translation from that application to all these other fields. So oil and gas, aviation, space, you know, our ability to control flow is not, you know, isolated to one industry specifically.

So talking to our you, know design and applications team, what would it take for us to make it? What's best suited for this type of technology?

Maegan Baker

The team engaged in the computational fluid dynamic analysis to take a look at what was actually happening inside of that valve and make sure that whatever we were producing at the AMRF was not just faster, cheaper, and easier to make, but also something that performed to a much higher standard. 

James Stokes

The methodology we took was to kind of do a flow analysis on it, and try to figure out what actually the most optimized flow regime through the path was.

Niraj Shah

We took this marine valve which is made using casting, and then optimized the design of it so that it's easy to manufacture using CNC machine.

Maegan Baker

I think people are really surprised to know that we actually did machine the duplex stainless steel. It is such a difficult material to to cut out um on the CNC machine.

Steve Milanoski

Duplex stainless is it no fun. The team really stepped up to a challenge that I didn't think they saw coming when they signed up. 

James Stokes

Part of what we're looking at is those difficult problems and to kind of give a bit of confidence to say "Yeah it can be done you can take these on and actually do them." 

Steve Milanoski

We're not focused on basic research. We're not here to reinvent the wheel. It's more how do we parameterise it, and do a best fit for the most possible cases?  

Maegan Baker

It shows through an actual example, the kind of difference that the AMRF can make for manufacturers and to the sector as well. So these are the types of things that, you know, we can help, we can help with, and we're really, really keen to talk to manufacturers about that.

Introducing Azmena Hussain, Manager AMRF Connect

Azmena Hussain joined this month as the new AMRF Connect Manager. In her role, she will lead networking events, showcases, and tailored training opportunities designed to foster growth and accelerate technological advancements across the region. AMRF Connect supports a vibrant community of industry leaders, academic and research institutions, and key enablers.

Azmena brings a strong background in research commercialisation, regulatory affairs, and risk management. Most recently, she served as a Business Mentor at the Sydney Knowledge Hub at the University of Sydney. Prior to that, she developed and executed innovative strategies, program launches, and international expansion initiatives in the life sciences industry across the Asia–Pacific region.

Azmena will be based at the AMRF Connect Hub in the First Building at Bradfield.

Across the Aerotropolis

NSW launches Investment Delivery Authority to accelerate major projects

In June, the NSW Government announced the creation of the Investment Delivery Authority, a new body designed to fast-track approvals for high-value domestic and international projects exceeding $1 billion.

Inspired by the successful Housing Delivery Authority model, this initiative will support approximately 30 major projects annually, unlocking up to $50 billion in investment across sectors such as advanced technology and energy.

The Authority will streamline planning processes, offer strategic guidance, and coordinate essential infrastructure to ensure timely project delivery.

Learn more at the Investment Delivery Authority – Investment NSW.

$835 million infrastructure boost to accelerate Aerotropolis growth

The NSW Government’s major $835 million infrastructure announcement to support continued development of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis is great news for the jobs and advanced industries being unlocked in Western Sydney.

The investment includes $644 million for stormwater and recycled water infrastructure, designed to fast-track development and support new business growth ahead of the 2026 opening of the 24/7 Western Sydney International Airport.

The package builds on major projects already underway, including the Western Sydney International Airport, new Metro line, Bradfield City, and critical road upgrades such as the M12 Motorway, Mamre Road, and Elizabeth Drive.

WSI terminal construction complete

Major construction at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is now complete, marking the transition from build to operations ahead of its 2026 opening.

This milestone follows the completion of the 3.7 km runway, landside infrastructure, and airside works. Fit-out of retail and lounge areas will continue in the lead-up to launch.

Backed by a $19 billion Australian Government investment in Western Sydney infrastructure including $2.3 billion in the 2025 - 26 Budget, WSI is on track to become a 24-hour hub for passengers and freight.

With construction wrapped up, attention now shifts to system testing and operational readiness ahead of the airport’s 2026 opening. 

Air New Zealand first trans-Tasman carrier to join WSI

Air New Zealand has become the first trans-Tasman airline to commit to operating at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, with services to begin mid-2027.

The inaugural route will connect Auckland and Western Sydney, creating a new gateway between New Zealand and one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions. The service will complement Air New Zealand’s existing flights to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport.

The WSI - Air New Zealand agreement marks a key step in strengthening trans-Tasman connectivity and boosting tourism, business, and jobs in Western Sydney.

New aviation micro-credential

A new Introduction to Aviation Operations micro-credential has been launched in partnership with Western Sydney University and Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), supporting workforce readiness ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026.

The program equips participants with practical, job-ready skills for key entry-level roles in ramp operations, ground handling, and security screening—creating pathways for school leavers, career changers, and current workers.

Enrolments now open.

Aerotropolis Master Plan approved

The NSW Government has approved the first private-sector master plan for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, led by Ingham Property Group. Spanning 184 hectares in Bradfield, the development will deliver 12,500 jobs and significantly expand logistics infrastructure.

The plan includes 625,000 sqm of enterprise space, featuring state-of-the-art warehouses and distribution centres designed to support supply chain efficiency and scalability.

Its strategic location near the Western Sydney International Airport (opening in 2026) positions it as a future logistics hub with global connectivity.

With integrated green spaces and sustainable design, the project balances industrial growth with community wellbeing and environmental stewardship.

Aerotropolis Concierge Service

Interested in investing in the Aerotropolis but not sure where to start? The Authority’s Concierge Service is a free, confidential program that offers tailored support to help your business succeed in the Aerotropolis.

Get in touch today via investmentattractionoffice@bda.nsw.gov.au

At the BDA

New appointments to BDA Board

In April, the Bradfield Development Authority welcomed Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM and the Hon. Dr Craig Emerson to its Board.

Dr Foley, former Chief Scientist of Australia, brings deep expertise in physics and semiconductor research.

Dr Emerson, a former federal Cabinet Minister and economist, offers decades of experience in public policy and trade.

Their appointments strengthen the Authority’s focus on advanced manufacturing and semiconductor development, supporting Bradfield’s role as a hub for innovation and investment.

New Executive Director Appointment

The Authority is pleased to welcome Jeff McAlister as the Authority’s new Executive Director, Investment, Industry and Partnerships.

Jeff brings a wealth of experience in senior investment roles across multiple governments, most recently serving as Acting CEO of Invest Gold Coast and previously as the City of Gold Coast’s Chief Investment Officer.

His career also includes leadership roles with the Queensland and Northern Territory Governments, and international postings with New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade, including Ambassador to Brazil.

Sincere thanks to Ariel Ellis for his outstanding leadership as Acting Executive Director. Ariel has been instrumental in preparing the Authority for its go-to-market phase and will return to his role as Director, Commercial Projects following Jeff’s commencement.

Jeff will commence with the Authority on Monday, 28 July.

BDA Chair honoured in 2025 King's Birthday Awards

Congratulations to Bradfield Development Authority Chair, Professor Jennifer Westacott AC, who was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia - the nation’s highest civilian honour - in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours.

Professor Westacott was recognised for her distinguished service to business, higher education, mental health, and the broader community.

As Chair of the Authority since 2019, Professor Westacott has played a leading role in the creation of Bradfield.