Planning for the future
Darwin International Airport Pty Ltd holds a 50-year lease (plus a 49-year option) over the Darwin International Airport site from the Commonwealth of Australia under the Airports Act 1996.
Darwin International Airport is also a joint-user airport under the Airports Act and a Joint User Deed with the Department of Defence governs the co-located operation of Darwin International Airport and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin.
The Airports Act requires that Darwin International Airport prepare a 20-year master plan, including an airport environment strategy, to guide the development of the airport site. Until recently, we were required to renew the master plan every five years; however, recent amendments to the Airports Act have extended this to every eight years.
Darwin International Airport 2023 Master Plan
The 2023 Master Plan was approved by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Catherine King MP, on 23 June 2025.
The 2023 Master Plan is a strategic planning tool that outlines our vision for growth and development over the next 20 years.
- View 2023 Master Plan
- View Summary Booklet
Printed copies of the 2023 Master Plan are available to view or purchase during normal business hours from the Airport Development Group Management Centre, located within the Darwin International Airport terminal.