Australian Airports Roll Out $2 Billion Upgrade Slashing Security Wait Times

Australian travelers are finally catching a break. A nationwide $2 billion airport security overhaul is nearing completion across major cities, promising faster, simpler screening for millions of passengers each year—the biggest win. Laptops, tablets, liquids and aerosols will no longer need to be removed from carry-on bags at Australia’s domestic and international airports. Advanced CT scanners and upgraded X-ray machines provide 3D baggage imaging, allowing electronics and fluids to stay packed while still meeting strict aviation security standards.

New technology speeds up security lanes by 30% or more

Australia’s Sydney Airport, the country’s busiest aviation hub, has already unveiled its new smart lanes in Terminal 1 and is on track to complete the full rollout by next week. The airport says screening capacity has already jumped by nearly 100%, allowing passengers to clear checkpoints in fewer than 10 minutes during most periods.

A Sydney Airport spokesperson confirmed that passenger throughput has surged from approximately 235 travelers per lane per hour to 500, cutting queues dramatically. Terminal 2, serving Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex, is currently undergoing a $200 million revamp with all new lanes expected before Christmas. Terminal 3 travelers on Qantas already enjoy the upgraded systems.

Nationwide rollout

Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, and Hobart airports have completed similar installations. Brisbane Airport remains the final major hub to finish the transformation, but five high-tech lanes are launching this week, with an additional 18 lanes scheduled to open before December 31.

Officials expect major national improvement with 99% of passengers clearing security in under 10 minutes, faster arrivals through 40 new smartgates at Sydney Airport and reduced delays during peak holiday travel