Forum on Western Sydney Airport

The Forum on Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) has been established to enable the views of the communities of Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains to be heard and taken into account in the planning and development of Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. It will also provide the opportunity for industry, local government and other stakeholder groups to be informed and provide feedback on the opportunities and challenges presented by the introduction of a new major airport in the Sydney basin. A key objective of FOWSA is to promote informed and responsive engagement between community and stakeholder representatives and an Aviation Expert Steering Group on issues relating to airspace management and flight path options, noise abatement and other aircraft operating procedures, and potential noise and amenity impacts from aircraft overflights. This is the statutory role of FOWSA under the Airport Plan Conditions. FOWSA will also provide a mechanism for the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities and WSA Co Limited to update residents affected by airport operations, local authorities, airport users and other interested parties on a range of issues relating to the broader planning and development of the airport and their associated impacts. This includes identifying and discussing local employment and business opportunities and seeking ways to ensure the expected benefits are maximised for Western Sydney and surrounding communities.