Today's topping out ceremony for Newcastle Airport's International Terminal and the placing of the last steel piece, marks a major milestone in the transformational project.
With major construction now complete, the new terminal will next year connect the Hunter region to the world - unlocking jobs and opportunities in aviation, tourism and business.
The Australian Government committed $55 million to the international terminal project, which will provide enhanced international passenger and border processing facilities.
Finishing works continue on the terminal, which is scheduled to open by mid-2025.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"With the last steel piece now in place, this project has completely replaced the old terminal with a new, fit-for-purpose international terminal.
"This will pave the path for potentially an additional 850,000 visitors and around $12.7 billion in economic activity for the Hunter region over the next 20 years."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:
"This incredible project has taken shape right before our eyes, supporting hundreds of construction jobs as it came to life.
"The new terminal was designed by Cox Architects to reflect the natural beauty of the Hunter region, which it does spectacularly. It's expected to support over 4,400 ongoing jobs throughout the airport precinct after construction and I look forward to seeing it connect our region to the world."