Qantas Regional Lounge Upgrade Completes 7 Sites, 2 More by July 2026

Qantas Completes Regional Lounge Modernisation Across Seven Australian Airports

Qantas has finished refurbishing regional lounges at seven Australian airports as part of a multi-million-dollar network investment. The airline completed renovations in Mackay, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Kalgoorlie, Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Karratha. Two additional lounges in Devonport and Emerald are scheduled for completion by early July 2026. This comprehensive regional lounge upgrade programme reflects the carrier's commitment to enhancing ground experience for frequent flyers and QantasClub members across smaller airport hubs. The initiative represents one of the airline's most significant regional infrastructure commitments in recent years.

Seven Regional Lounges Already Completed

The Qantas regional lounge upgrade project delivers modernised facilities across Queensland, Western Australia, and Northern Territory airports. Completed renovations feature updated interior designs, improved ambient lighting systems, and expanded charging infrastructure. The design aesthetic draws inspiration from each region's unique landscapes, creating locally-relevant environments that enhance passenger comfort. Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Mackay lounges now showcase tropical design elements, while Kalgoorlie and Karratha reflect outback-inspired colour schemes. Tamworth and Coffs Harbour installations feature coastal-influenced aesthetics. Each refreshed space incorporates new entertainment screens and upgraded furnishings, creating inviting environments for regional travellers. These improvements significantly elevate the lounge experience for business travellers and frequent flyers using regional routes. The programme directly addresses passenger feedback regarding comfort and amenities in smaller airport facilities.

What's Included in the Refresh

The Qantas regional lounge upgrade incorporates several key enhancements beyond aesthetic improvements. Updated seating arrangements provide ergonomic comfort for extended layovers and connection times. Enhanced charging infrastructure includes USB ports and power outlets positioned throughout seating areas, addressing modern traveller connectivity requirements. New entertainment displays feature current news feeds and flight information systems. Improved lighting design creates welcoming atmospheres while reducing eye strain. Qantas Executive Manager Product and Service Sarah Udy emphasised the airline's commitment to evolving ground experiences. She stated the programme demonstrates continued investment in food and beverage options alongside facility upgrades. Each lounge maintains QantasClub standards while introducing design elements reflecting regional character and community identity.

Broader Network Investment Strategy

The regional lounge upgrade programme forms part of Qantas' extensive network modernisation initiative extending beyond regional Australia. The airline simultaneously completed new lounge installations in Adelaide and Auckland airports. Sydney International Business Lounge underwent comprehensive renovation, while Los Angeles International Business Lounge received targeted refresh improvements. Across the Tasman, Qantas expanded Platinum Dining services at its Auckland International Lounge, introducing breakfast service for Platinum One and Platinum frequent flyers. This à la carte breakfast menu features options including brioche French toast, Bircher muesli, and avocado on sourdough, complementing existing Neil Perry-designed lunch and dinner offerings. This coordinated investment strategy underscores Qantas' commitment to elevating lounge experiences across its entire network, from regional domestic facilities to major international hubs.

Two More Lounges Coming Soon

Devonport and Emerald lounges will complete the regional modernisation programme by early July 2026. Both facilities are currently undergoing similar renovation processes, incorporating the same design philosophy and amenity standards applied to completed sites. The Devonport lounge refresh will enhance Tasmania's primary airport facility, while the Emerald upgrade serves Central Queensland's aviation hub. Upon completion, all nine regional lounge refreshes will create a cohesive modernised experience across Australia's regional aviation network. These final two installations mark the conclusion of the broader regional lounge upgrade initiative announced in 2025. QantasLink leadership previously emphasised the programme's significance for long-term regional community investment, highlighting the airline's century-long presence in regional Australia. Completion by mid-year ensures all facilities meet updated operational and comfort standards before peak winter travel season.

Key Data Table: Regional Lounge Upgrade Progress

Airport Location	State	Completion Status	Key Features	Design Theme
Mackay	Queensland	Completed	Enhanced lighting, charging points	Tropical
Coffs Harbour	New South Wales	Completed	Updated interiors, entertainment screens	Coastal
Tamworth	New South Wales	Completed	Modern furnishings, improved amenities	Coastal-inspired
Kalgoorlie	Western Australia	Completed	New charging infrastructure, AV displays	Outback
Rockhampton	Queensland	Completed	Contemporary design, expanded seating	Tropical
Gladstone	Queensland	Completed	Landscape-inspired colour palette, tech upgrades	Tropical
Karratha	Western Australia	Completed	Regional aesthetic, comfort-focused layout	Outback
Devonport	Tasmania	July 2026 target	Full modernisation underway	Regional Tasmanian
Emerald	Queensland	July 2026 target	Renovation in progress	Central Queensland

What This Means for Travelers

The Qantas regional lounge upgrade programme directly enhances travel experiences for frequent flyers and regional airport users. Enhanced facilities reduce traveller stress during connections and layovers at smaller hubs. Improved charging infrastructure enables device management during layovers without hunting for power sources. Modern entertainment systems provide current information and entertainment options. Better seating comfort supports extended waiting periods in regional lounges. Design personalisation creates locally-relevant environments that reflect regional character and identity.

Actionable takeaways for regional travellers:

Verify your airline membership level qualifies for lounge access before arrival at regional facilities
Download Qantas app to confirm lounge status and real-time facility updates at your departure airport
Arrive early at regional airports to fully experience refreshed facilities without time pressure
Explore regional lounge amenities during first visit to optimise your connection experience
Provide feedback to Qantas regarding upgraded facilities to support continued network investment

Frequently Asked Questions

Which regional airports now have upgraded Qantas lounges? Seven Australian regional airports now feature completed lounge upgrades: Mackay, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Kalgoorlie, Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Karratha. Devonport and Emerald will complete their renovations by July 2026. Each facility incorporates modernised interiors, enhanced charging infrastructure, and landscape-inspired design elements reflecting regional character.

What specific amenities are included in the refreshed regional lounges? The Qantas regional lounge upgrade includes updated seating arrangements, improved ambient lighting, expanded USB and power charging points throughout facilities, new entertainment screens displaying news and flight information, and contemporary furnishings. Design elements draw inspiration from each region's unique landscapes and local identity.

When will Devonport and Emerald lounge upgrades complete? Both Devonport and Emerald lounge renovations are scheduled for completion by early July 2026. These final installations will conclude the broader regional modernisation programme, ensuring all nine regional facilities meet updated operational and comfort standards before peak winter travel season.

How does this upgrade programme reflect Qantas' broader network investment? The regional lounge upgrade forms part of extensive network modernisation including new lounges in Adelaide and Auckland, Sydney International Business Lounge renovation, Los Angeles International Business Lounge refresh, and expanded Platinum Dining services at Auckland International. This coordinated strategy elevates lounge experiences across domestic and international facilities.