Amazon Australia has unveiled a purpose-built fulfilment centre in Horsley Park, Western Sydney, marking a $400 million investment in its local operations. Fairfield City Council Mayor Frank Carbone, Councillor Kevin Lam and Amazon Australia director of operations Wayne Angus joined the ribbon-cutting.
The facility covers about 80,000 square metres, or roughly four and a half times the size of the Sydney Opera House. Amazon says it will be able to hold more than 10 million items sold on Amazon.com.au, spanning everyday essentials, electronics, beauty products, books, toys and homeware.
Jobs and local impact
Once fully operational, the site will offer more than 1,000 local jobs. Roles will range from entry-level positions with on-the-job training and certification programs to skilled work in operations, human resources, engineering and workplace health and safety.
Amazon says permanent employees will receive benefits including:
- subsidised health insurance for the entire family;
- free life insurance;
- up to 20 weeks of parental leave pay;
- free Amazon Prime membership.
Angus described the opening as part of Amazon's continuing investment in Western Sydney. He said the $400 million commitment reflected a long-term approach to the region and to providing Australian customers with a world-class experience. As demand grows, he said, the company is focused on improving selection and delivery speed while supporting the communities in which it operates.
Carbone said the investment would create opportunities for businesses to distribute products and reach customers across Australia and internationally. He said the centre represented a significant investment in technology and capability, while the people behind the operation - from engineers to transport workers - would make it work. He also described the facility as a boost for the local economy, residents and small businesses.
Seller capacity and technology
Amazon said the Western Sydney centre will also support New South Wales small and medium-sized businesses using Fulfilment by Amazon. The additional capacity will help Australian sellers of smaller items serve customers around the country more seamlessly.
The fulfilment centre will use advanced technology to assist teams as they pick and pack items for Amazon.com.au shoppers. Amazon says this contributes to its efforts to deliver a smarter, faster and more consistent experience for customers in Sydney and elsewhere in Australia.
Sustainability and network
The building includes sustainable design features and advanced inbound and outbound sortation systems. A solar array is installed on the roof, and rapid rollers are fitted at all dock doors.
Insulation is intended to maintain internal temperatures and reduce energy consumption, while motion-sensor lighting adds to Amazon's energy-efficiency measures. Amazon Australia now operates four fulfilment centres in New South Wales and five delivery stations.