Amazon Australia has unveiled a purpose-built fulfilment centre at Horsley Park in Western Sydney, a facility backed by a $400 million investment and intended to expand the company's capacity to serve Australian customers.
Fairfield City Council representatives, including Mayor Frank Carbone and Councillor Kevin Lam, took part in the opening with Amazon Australia director of operations Wayne Angus.
The site covers about 80,000 square metres, or roughly four and a half times the size of the Sydney Opera House. It can hold more than 10 million items sold on Amazon.com.au, spanning everyday essentials, electronics, beauty products, books, toys and homeware.
Jobs and workforce
Once fully operational, the centre is expected to offer more than 1,000 local jobs. Roles will range from entry-level positions with on-the-job training and certification programs to skilled jobs in operations, human resources, engineering and workplace health and safety.
Benefits for permanent employees include subsidised health insurance for their families, free life insurance, up to 20 weeks of parental leave pay and a free Amazon Prime membership, the company said.
Wayne Angus, Amazon Australia's director of operations, said the investment demonstrated a long-term commitment to the region and to providing a world-class experience for Australian customers. He added that as demand grows, the company is focused on improving product selection and delivery speed while supporting communities where it operates.
Small business and technology
The centre is also expected to support New South Wales small and medium-sized businesses using Fulfilment by Amazon. According to Amazon, the added capacity will help Australian sellers of smaller items serve customers around the country more easily.
Amazon said the facility will use advanced technology to help staff pick and pack orders, part of its effort to make delivery smarter, faster and more consistent for customers in Sydney and across Australia. It features modern inbound and outbound sortation systems.
Sustainability and local impact
The building includes sustainable design elements such as a rooftop solar array, rapid rollers at all dock doors, insulation intended to maintain internal temperatures and reduce energy use, and motion-sensor lighting.
Frank Carbone, Mayor of Fairfield City Council, said the investment would create opportunities for businesses to distribute products and reach customers in Australia and overseas. He described the facility as a significant investment in technology and capability, while emphasising that engineers, transport workers and others behind the scenes make the operation work. He also said it would provide a boost for the local economy, residents and small businesses.
Amazon Australia now operates four fulfilment centres in New South Wales and five delivery stations, according to the company.