With the rise of premium travel, it’s hard to believe it hadn’t already happened – that there was even a gap there – but Australia has just seen the arrival of its first independent domestic airport lounge.
Aussie domestic travellers now have a new lounge option, with Plaza Premium Group (PPG) officially opening the country’s first independent domestic airport lounge, not at Sydney or Melbourne Airports, but at the country’s fifth busiest hub, Adelaide Airport.
With a soft opening last month, the fresh facility marks a significant expansion for PPG, which already operates international lounges in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.
It’s also a big boost to Adelaide Airport, which along with domestic growth, has seen a host of new and resumed international routes in recent times.
The space sits within Domestic Departures – and best of all, it’s open to all passengers, regardless of airline or cabin class. Simply pay the entry fee, and you’re in. You might also have to make a booking on busy days.
“Natural choice”
“We are deeply committed to expanding premium, accessible lounge experiences, and Adelaide’s impressive aviation growth made it the natural choice for this launch,” PPG Founder and CEO Song Hoi-See said.
“South Australia is witnessing remarkable demand for travel, with Adelaide Airport’s network of connections continually expanding. The return and addition of international routes, ranging from Christchurch and Auckland to Hong Kong and Bali, with more destinations such as San Francisco and Shanghai set to join soon, underline the state’s rising influence as a gateway to Australia.
“With the opening of our new Plaza Premium Lounge, our aim is to enhance the journey for every passenger—whether travelling for work, leisure, or returning home.”
The launch comes as Adelaide Airport continues its multi-year redevelopment, with increasing passenger numbers and new international routes driving demand for more traveller amenities.
The airport handled 8.73 million passengers in 2024/25 and is forecast to welcome 13 international carriers by mid-2026.
“We’re delighted that Plaza Premium Group has chosen Adelaide Airport for its first domestic lounge in Australia,” Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox said.
“This lounge will attract a wide range of customers, from business travellers, families and those heading off on holidays, by offering a quiet and comfortable sanctuary moments from the vibrancy of a busy airport.
“It perfectly complements Plaza Premium’s international lounge, offering a seamless and connected experience for everyone.”
What to expect
Inside, it’s all about South Australia. The lounge has been designed to reflect SA’s landscapes, using natural textures, layered lighting and warm tones.
Travellers will find flexible seating, dedicated workstations, high-speed wi-fi and a menu that highlights regional produce.
The all-day dining offering includes hot dishes, snacks, pastries and a breakfast pancake station. A signature egg-and-bacon breakfast pizza leads the morning menu, while lunch and dinner options incorporate seasonal SA ingredients.
The beverage menu features barista-made coffee, wellness drinks, local wines and South Aussie draught beers. The lounge also pours Tatachilla wines from McLaren Vale.
PPG growth
Plaza Premium Group will reach its 10-year Australia milestone in 2026.
Its first local lounge, opened in Brisbane in 2016, was Australia’s first independent international lounge – and the group plans further upgrades to its Brisbane lounge as part of its broader regional growth strategy. So watch this space.
KARRYON UNPACKS: The arrival of this lounge comes at an interesting moment. Demand for flexible premium spaces is growing, especially as domestic travel remains strong and passenger habits shift beyond the traditional airline-status model. It also signals that airports, not just airlines, are stepping up their hospitality game. This Adelaide opening might be the first of many.
