Chair’s Message
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to Infrastructure Partnerships Australia’s Annual Infrastructure Oration and National Infrastructure Awards - a celebration of leadership, innovation, and individual and industry excellence.
Each year, through the Annual Infrastructure Oration, we reflect on the key challenges and opportunities facing our sector. This year, Michael Brennan, an highly respected Australian economist, and former Chair of the Productivity Commission, will deliver an address that promises to be equally relevant and thought-provoking. Michael served as Chair of the Australian Productivity Commission from 2018 to 2023. He has previously held in senior public sector roles including as Deputy Secretary at the Australian and Victorian Treasuries and as a trusted advisor to various Federal and State Treasurers and Ministers for Finance. Michael will draw on this professional experience to examine the need for policy reform and vision in Australia, and the role of the infrastructure sector to the economy at large.
This event is also an opportunity to recognise outstanding examples of individual and project achievements over the past year. Tonight, winners will be announced across ten categories:
• Advisory Excellence
• Financial Excellence
• Government Partnerships Excellence
• Contractor Excellence
• Operator and Service Provider Excellence
• Innovation Excellence
• Industry Choice
• Project of the Year
• Future Infrastructure Leader of the Year Award, and
• Women’s Achievement in Infrastructure Award.
A sincere thank you to our esteemed Judging Panel – chaired by Sonya Campbell, Deputy Secretary, Commercial, NSW Treasury – who generously contributed their time, energy, and expertise to review this year’s submissions: Jessica Hall, Deputy Secretary, Infrastructure Group, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, Sally Stannard, Director-General, Julie Mitchell, Deputy Director-General, Infrastructure Management and Delivery, Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland, Jonathan Spear, Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure Victoria and Alex Wendler, Chief Executive Officer, Landcom.
The success of this event over two decades is a testament to the support from our longstanding sponsors particularly our Platinum Sponsor, MUFG and our Gold Sponsor, Transurban. I would also like to acknowledge the contributions from each of the award category sponsors.
A final congratulations to our finalists – I wish you all the best of luck! And, lastly, a congratulations to the entire team at Infrastructure Partnerships Australia for hosting another successful event, one that continues to exceed expectations year after year.
Yours sincerely,
Advisory Excellence Award
Finalists 2024
Recognises excellence in advisory services on a major infrastructure project, policy or reform in a qualifying professional services or public sector discipline including (but not limited to) engineering, design, legal and policy advice.
Sponsored by
Choosing Victoria’s future –Five Urban Development Scenarios
Nominees:
· Arup
· Infrastructure Victoria
· SGS Economics and Planning
· The Centre for International Economics
· WT Partnership
Choosing Victoria’s Future: Five Urban Development Scenarios models the potential urban development of Victoria. Of the modelled scenarios, Infrastructure Victoria’s analysis determined that consolidated and compact cities achieve the best overall economic, social, and environmental impacts across 18 different indicators. Infrastructure Victoria makes five recommendations to the Victorian Government across land-use planning, tax and environmental policy to achieve more compact and connected cities.
The Judging Panel commended Infrastructure Victoria’s provision of accessible policy analysis, underpinned by substantial data and rigorous methodology. The Judging Panel noted Infrastructure Victoria’s timeliness of the advice, allowing Government to respond quickly to a fast-moving and complex policy issue.
Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery Policy and Embodied Emissions Measurement Guidance
Nominees:
· Infrastructure NSW
· Transport for NSW
· In consultation with industry (Infrastructure Partnerships Australia, Green Building Council of Australia, Consult Australia, MECLA and Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia)
The Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery policy, developed by Infrastructure NSW, sets a mandate to address embodied emissions on public infrastructure projects and embed best practice carbon management in NSW Government decision-making, design and delivery. The policy sets out guidance for government delivery agencies to manage upfront carbon when delivering public infrastructure projects. Accompanying the policy is an embodied emissions measurement guidance that provides a common methodology, assumptions, data use approach and reporting requirements for the measurement of embodied emissions.
The Judging Panel commended Infrastructure NSW for their groundbreaking advice that provides clear and concise guidance on the measurement and reduction of embodied carbon during infrastructure delivery. The Judging Panel welcomed Infrastructure NSW and their partner’s approach to consultation, with their extensive approach ensuring all stakeholders views and inputs were gathered.
The Design Guide for Health: Spaces, Places and Precincts
Nominees:
·Government Architect NSW
·Health Infrastructure
·Newcastle University Health Research
The Design Guide for Health: Spaces, Places and Precincts provides a framework for applying a place-based approach to the planning, design, and delivery of health infrastructure projects, alongside quality clinical infrastructure. The Guide was developed to support stakeholders involved throughout the health infrastructure delivery lifecycle. The advice laid out in the guide has been embedded across Health Infrastructure’s procurement, planning, design, and assurance processes.
The Judging Panel shortlisted the guide for the impact it will have on enabling project teams to deliver health infrastructure projects that are optimal for patients, staff as well as the wider community. The Judging Panel commended Health Infrastructure’s integration of the guide across its pipeline.
Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (legal and transaction advice to the Department of Transport and Main Roads)
Nominee:
·Ashurst
The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program includes the manufacture of 65 new six-car passenger trains at a new purpose-built facility in Torbanlea, Queensland, a new rail facility for train maintenance and stabling in Ormeau, two train simulators, and maintenance of the new fleet for a period of up to 35 years. Ashurst provided legal and transaction advisory services to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, including designing the project’s procurement and contract structure.
The Judging Panel shortlisted Ashurst’s legal and transaction advice for its wide-ranging impact on the contract’s success from business case development through to contract award. The Judging Panel noted Ashurst’s close involvement in the transaction as members of the project team, and range of advice, across environmental, planning, cultural heritage and site complexity issues.
Waratah Super Battery (technical
and environmental
advisor)
Nominee:
· GHD
The Waratah Super Battery is an 850-megawatt/1,680-megawatt hour battery to be located on the site of the former Munmorah Power Station on the Central Coast, NSW. The battery is in the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone. The project was announced in early 2022, and was granted planning approval in February 2023 with construction commencing in May 2023.
The Judging Panel commended the technical and environmental advisory services provided to the project which is to be delivered on a confined brownfield site with existing industrial arrangements. The Judging Panel also applauded GHD for enabling the project to accelerate through the complex approvals and regulatory processes, ensuring it can be delivered in advance of the Eraring Power Station closure.
Financial Excellence Award
Finalists 2024
Recognises exceptional advice and/or innovation in the financing, structuring or transaction of a major infrastructure project.
Sponsored by
Canberra Light Rail Stage 2A –
City to Commonwealth Park
Nominee:
· MUFG for their advice to the Canberra Metro consortium (comprised of Pacific Partnerships, John Holland and Abrdn)
The ACT Light Rail Stage 2A is a $577 million extension to the existing ACT Light Rail Stage 1. Stage 2A will see the delivery of 1.7 kilometres of new line and the construction of three new stops at Edinburgh Avenue, City South, and Commonwealth Avenue. To deliver the project, the Canberra Metro consortium developed a solution that extends the original Stage 1 Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement to Stage 2A.
The Judging Panel recognised the group’s effectiveness in successfully managing the complex regulatory process required by Stage 2A, spanning multiple agencies including negotiations with the National Capital Authority. The Panel commended the project’s proactive approach to the project’s financial structure which ensures a unified operation of the light rail system from Gungahlin to Commonwealth Park, and provides the basis for further extension to Woden as part of the proposed Stage 2B.
Ground Lease Model 2 Project
Nominees:
· EY
· Housing Australia
· Ontoit
· Tetris Capital
· For their advice to Homes Victoria
The Ground Lease Model Project Stage Two will deliver 1,370 new social, affordable, specialist disability and market rental homes. The project is being delivered under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) using a Ground Lease Model, which sees the Victorian Government lease the land to the Building Communities Consortium. The Consortium will design, construct, finance, operate and maintain the dwellings over a 40-year concession term, after which the land and homes will revert to Homes Victoria.
The Judging Panel commends the consortium’s financial advisors for the use of the ground lease model over a 40-year concession term. This approach ensures long-term stability to the State, the Consortium and residents. The project’s transparent financing structure, involving private sector finance and government investment, showcases a sophisticated model for resilient infrastructure financing. The Panel also recognised the financial importance of diversifying the range of homes built, varying from specialist disability to market rental homes.
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre
Nominee:
· Plenary Group
The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will see the construction of a 1,000-seat convention centre and 3,700 square metre event centre to be delivered by the Plenary Consortium using an Availability Public Private Partnership. The Plenary Consortium will also finance and deliver an adjacent hotel and mixed-use precinct. Following the construction of the project Plenary Consortium will be responsible for the maintenance of the facility for 25 years.
The Judging Panel highlights the consortium’s success in navigating evolving financial complexities including escalating construction prices during the preferred bidder phase. The Judging Panel also noted the consortium’s plans for the hotel and mixed-use precinct as an integral aspect of a refreshed Geelong foreshore.
QIC and Vector’s A$1.6bn Climate Bonds
Certified green loan
Nominee:
· JP Morgan for their advice to QIC
QIC and Vector secured a $1.6 billion green loan under the new Climate Bonds Standard, to finance QIC Infrastructure’s acquisition of a 50% stake in Vetor Metering and fund the business’ ongoing electricity smart metering expansion across Australia and New Zealand. JP Morgan acted as financial advisor on the transaction.
The Judging Panel congratulated JP Morgan for their advice, with the Vector Metering transaction being the first to achieve certification under the newly launched Climate Bonds Standard and Certification 4.0 scheme. They also acknowledged the transaction’s significance as the largest Climate Bonds certified green bank loan arranged under the Climate Bonds’ electrical grids and storage eligibility criteria.
Government Partnerships Excellence Award
Finalists 2024
Recognises excellence in the delivery of infrastructure or a service through a genuine partnership between government and the private sector, using this partnership to overcome challenges or exploit opportunities.
Sponsored by
Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
Nominees:
· CPB Contractors
· TasWater
· UGL
· WSP Australia
The Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant Upgrade secures the water supply of approximately 60 per cent of Greater Hobart’s drinking demand. The upgrade included 25 kilometres of pipework and expansions to the existing plant, enabling the delivering of 160 million litres of drinking water per day, an increase of 40 per cent of the plant’s existing capacity. The project is the largest capital works project undertaken by TasWater.
The Judging Panel recognised the significant impact the project has had on ensuring water resilience and sustainability for Greater Hobart. The success of the contractors was demonstrated by the development of bespoke commercial arrangements, including tailored minor works contracts and separating the project into smaller packages. This allowed for 83 per cent of the works packages to be awarded to Tasmanian businesses. The Panel also commended the project for maintaining high construction safety and environmental standards.
Pathways to 144 Mental Health Bed Expansion
Nominees:
· AECOM
· Barwon Health
· Lendlease
· Melbourne Health
· Northern Health
· Victorian Health Building Authority (now the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority)
· Western Health
The Pathways to 144 Mental Health Bed Expansion project increased capacity for mental health services across four existing facilities in Victoria – the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Northern Hospital, Sunshine Hospital, and McKellar Centre. The facilities provided 144 additional beds to support contemporary approaches to treatment, care, and reduce pressure on emergency departments. The project was managed by the Victorian Health Building Authority and was delivered under a co-design partnership model with AECOM, together with NTC Architects, NH Architecture, and BG Architecture.
The Judging Panel praised the project’s public and private partners for the project’s close and comprehensive adherence to the recommendations of the 2019 Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. The Judging Panel commended the project’s co-design partnerships approach which integrated expertise from the public and private sectors and included extensive stakeholder engagement. The approach promoted agency for clinicians and people with lived experience of mental illness to ensure designs delivered benefits to the end-users.
Preston Level Crossing Removal Project
Nominees:
· North Western Program Alliance comprising:
– John Holland
– Kellogg Brown & Root
– Level Crossing Removal Project (Victorian Government)
– Metro Trains Melbourne
The $564 million Preston Level Crossing Removal forms part of Victoria’s Level Crossing Removal Program. The project comprised the removal of four level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road on the Mernda Line, construction of two kilometres of elevated rail viaduct, and two new stations and precincts. During early planning, the North Western Program Alliance (NWPA) conducted an intensive optioneering and analysis process that resulted in the development of the Radiant Heat Curing (RHC) engineering solution. NWPA partnered with subcontractor CIG to develop the RHC method, a rapid cast in situ program that constructed the piers and crossheads required to support the viaducts, removing the need to construct and transport large concrete components offsite.
The Judging Panel recognised the North Western Program Alliance for the integrated and collaborative approach to project delivery. The Panel commended the project team for the delivery of a complex project in a busy commercial and residential site, with minimal disruptions to transport and the local community ensuring that social licence for the project remained high.
WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels Project
Nominees:
· ACCIONA Samsung Bouygues Joint Venture
· Transport for NSW
· Transurban
The WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels project delivered new twin tunnels which link the existing M4 motorway at Haberfield to the M8 motorway at St Peters. The $3.2 billion project involved the construction of 7.5 kilometres of tunnel at an average depth of 35 metres. By connecting M4 and M8, the link tunnel is expected to remove 4,000 trucks from Parramatta Road per day and up to 100,000 vehicles per day from surface road networks, and allows for the circumvention of 52 sets of traffic lights from Parramatta to Mascot.
The Judging Panel commends the complex integration of the new underground link into an existing network of roads, noting that it is Australia’s first integration of two live motorways. The Panel recognised the strong and productive relationship between all stakeholders, ensuring the project was an operational success, which was underscored by the positive community response to the project.
Contractor Excellence Award
Finalists 2024
Recognises exceptional work completed by a contractor including the achievement of innovative, sustainable, safety, or quality objectives.
Sponsored by
Major Earthworks for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird
Walton) Airport
Nominee:
· CPB Contractors ACCIONA Joint Venture
The project saw approximately 27 million cubic metres of material excavated and strategically placed to set the foundation of the Airport’s construction. The project enabled the development of essential airport components, including the runway, passenger terminal, and drainage network. At the peak of delivery, over 250 heavy-earthmoving machines were involved in moving more than approximately one million cubic metres of earth a month.
The Panel highlighted the on-time delivery of one of the largest earthmoving projects ever undertaken in Australia and utilisation of repurposed construction waste. The project successfully overcame three years of elevated rainfall and achieved a 15 per cent reduction in carbon emissions through the use of efficient construction practices. The panel further noted successful risk management associated with landscape changes, with the Joint Venture successfully reducing site water catchments from 16 to five.
New Fitzroy River Bridge
Nominees:
• BMD Constructions
• Georgiou Group
The New Fitzroy River Bridge project, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, responded to the critical need for infrastructure renewal following ex-tropical cyclone Ellie. The project was delivered between February 2023 and December 2023, six months ahead of the original schedule. The project requirements included demolishing the old bridge and constructing a new 270-metrelong bridge that is six times stronger than the previous bridge. The project’s expedited completion addressed the challenges posed by the remote location, tight timelines, and a fast-tracked procurement process.
The Panel recognised the rapid delivery of the project in a remote area, employment of over 250 local residents, collaboration with local suppliers, and contribution to the safety and resilience of the Kimberley region’s road network. By achieving an early project completion, the project restored a vital transport link before the onset of the wet season. The environmental and social benefits of the accelerated delivery, minimised on-site time and use of pre-fabricated and modular materials were all noted by the Panel.
Prince of Wales Hospital Acute Services Building
Nominee:
· Lendlease
The $870 million Prince of Wales Hospital Acute Services Building (PoWH ASB) saw the delivery of a 13-storey health, academic, and research building connected to the existing Prince of Wales Hospital. The project saw significant engineering achievements including the staged lowering of Hospital Road. The project was successfully delivered after overcoming challenges posed by its confined site and adjacency to critical operational healthcare services.
The Judging Panel recognised the project for the successful delivery of a complex facility on an operating brownfield site, and the responsiveness of Lendlease to evolving health priorities, including the addition of five negative airflow rooms following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project’s success in overcoming challenges associated with delivering the facility during and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with innovative solutions like off-site construction of link bridges and staged road lowering contributed to the project’s nomination.
Townsville Ring Road, Stage 5
Nominees:
· AECOM
· Georgiou Group
The Townsville Ring Road – Stage 5 project saw construction of the final six kilometre section of the Townsville Ring Road and was delivered three months ahead of schedule and under budget. The project saw the duplication of the last remaining two-lane section of the Townsville Ring Road, covering a distance of six kilometres.
The Judging Panel acknowledged the successful delivery of the project and the agility of the contractor in responding to significant scope changes, cost escalations and the discovery of challenging materials unknown during the tendering phase.The panel further recognised that 84 per cent of the total project expenditure was with Queensland businesses.
WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels Project
Nominee:
· ACCIONA Samsung Bouygues Joint Venture
The WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels project delivered new twin tunnels which link the existing M4 motorway at Haberfield to the M8 motorway at St Peters. The $3.2 billion project involved the construction of 7.5 kilometres of tunnel at an average depth of 35 metres. By connecting M4 and M8, the link tunnel is expected to remove 4,000 trucks from Parramatta Road per day and up to 100,000 vehicles per day from surface road networks, and allows for the circumvention of 52 sets of traffic lights from Parramatta to Mascot.
The Judging Panel noted the WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels project achieved its objectives punctually and within budget, particularly noting the successful integration of the new contracting Joint Venture into the WestConnex programme. The Panel noted the early involvement of the mechanical and electrical teams and implementation of a “tunnel production line” approach, prevented bottlenecks and enabled all crews to work optimally. The Judging Panel also noted that the project achieved a 42% reduction in Scope One and Two emissions during construction, and a 63% reduction over the design life.
Operator & Service Provider Excellence Award Finalists
2024
Recognises excellence in the delivery of services or management of operations of a major infrastructure asset.
Sponsored by
Consolidated Toll Road Operations South East Queensland
Nominees:
· Brisbane City Council
· Indra Sistemas
· Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads
· Transurban
Transurban’s consolidated toll road operations in South East Queensland streamlines four previously independent and geographically-dispersed traffic control room facilities into a single centre. The facility monitors 82 kilometres of toll roads, tunnels, and bridges, and utilises intelligent transportation system technologies. The centre uses predictive analytics for both network traffic flow management and incident and emergency response, and machine learning capabilities to constantly improve network operations based on past experiences.
The Judging Panel shortlisted the project as an outstanding example of fully-integrated toll road network operations, underpinned by innovative use of technologies. The Panel commended the use of intelligent transportation system technologies to dispatch incident response crews in emergencies based on availability and incident proximity. In addition, the facility’s technologies are equipped to cater for future vehicle technological advancements, including connected and automated vehicles. The Judges also commended the construction of an alternate traffic control room to enhance resilience, disaster recovery functions and ensure operational continuity.
Palisade Investments Energy Portfolio
Nominee:
· Palisade Integrated Management Services
Palisade Integrated Management Services (PIMS) is a Melbourne-based subsidiary of Palisade Investment Partners, which delivers independent asset management services. Established in 2015, PIMS has seen strong growth and in 2023 managed 11 standalone assets with a combined enterprise value of approximately $4.5 billion. This comprised a significant renewables portfolio including the Snowtown 2, Waterloo, Hallett, Granville Harbour, Macarthur, and Stockyard Hill Wind Farms and the Ross River Solar Farm – as well as three power and gas pipelines and the Gold Coast University Hospital Car Park.
The Judging Panel shortlisted PIMS for its innovative and unique asset management structure. By managing multiple assets under one entity, the PIMS model promotes efficiency and consistency while driving additional value through scale. The Panel commended the approach for it’s comprehensive inhouse approach and its proven saving on costs.
Sydney Light Rail
Nominees:
· Alstom
· ALTRAC Light Rail
· Transdev Australasia
The Sydney Light Rail is a 25-kilometre dual track network comprising two CBD and South-East light rail lines (L2 and L3) and the Inner-West light rail line (L1), delivered as a Public Private Partnership (PPP). Now operational, Sydney Light Rail is operated by Transdev Australasia, maintained by Alstom, both coordinated by ALTRAC Light Rail. The L2 and L3 began operations in December 2019 and April 2020 respectively, with the PPP term until March 2036.
The Judging Panel praised the contribution that the successful operation and maintenance of the services has had on the transformation of how people move around Sydney – both in how it connects with other public transport modes and operates in pedestrianised CBD spaces. The Panel praised its consistent service operations, with between 97.8-99.3 per cent of light rail services across all lines operating on time as of January 2024.
WestConnex – Asset Maintenance and Traffic Services
Nominee:
· Fulton Hogan Egis O&M
WestConnex is a 33-kilometre continuous motorway network, delivered over four stages, and includes the M4 and M5, M4-M8 Link and a new interchange at Rozelle. The motorway network, owned and operated by Transurban, also has connections for future projects linking Sydney’s north shore, Sydney Airport and Sydney’s southern suburbs. Fulton Hogan Egis O&M is responsible for Incident Response and Maintenance of the M4, M5 East, M8, M4-M5 Link and Rozelle Interchange, including providing asset management, incident response and maintenance services and delivering relevant capital works (O&M services) over a ten-year period.
The Judging Panel commended Fulton Hogan Egis’ management of the O&M services interface with design and construction works throughout delivery of WestConnex, as well as its strong collaboration with its client to implement a new traffic operating model for Transurban. The Panel were impressed with Fulton Hogan Egis’ delivery of O&M services that, despite pandemic-related disruptions, contributed to the M4-M8 Link and Rozelle Interchange being delivered ahead of schedule.
Innovation Excellence Award
Finalists 2024
Recognises innovation in a major infrastructure project or service. This may be through the use of technology, intelligent engineering, innovative business models, system optimisation, modernisation, or disruption.
Sponsored by
Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery Policy and Embodied Emissions Measurement Guidance
Nominees:
· Infrastructure NSW
· Transport for NSW
· In consultation with industry (Infrastructure Partnerships Australia, Green Building Council of Australia, Consult Australia, MECLA and Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia)
The Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery policy, developed by Infrastructure NSW, sets a mandate to address embodied emissions on public infrastructure projects and embed best practice carbon management in NSW Government decision-making, design and delivery. The policy sets out guidance for government delivery agencies to manage upfront carbon when delivering public infrastructure projects. Accompanying the policy is an embodied emissions measurement guidance that provides a common methodology, assumptions, data use approach and reporting requirements for the measurement of embodied emissions.
The Judging Panel commended Infrastructure NSW on its pioneering approach to setting a government-wide policy that provides clear agency guidance on how to measure and reduce embodied carbon throughout all stages of an infrastructure project. The Panel recognised the significant impact this policy will have on Australia’s broader decarbonisation landscape, with national Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in June 2023 approving the national adoption of this measurement approach, once implemented.
Melbourne Airport Façade Management Program
Nominees:
· AECOM Australia
· Melbourne Airport
· Veris
AECOM’s Façade Management Program, undertaken for Melbourne Airport, represents a transformative initiative in the assessing and maintenance of the façade condition of major assets. The program comprised a detailed condition audit and data capture of over 10 kilometres of infrastructure façade in a live, operational environment. The project leveraged UAV drone technology to capture high-resolution hyper-oblique photogrammetry with 3D Terrestrial Laser Scanning. This approach ensured a safer, faster, and precise condition assessment, completed in under 12 months compared to the traditional two years, while minimising disruption to airport operations.
The Judging Panel recognised the program for its innovative use of technology to deliver a detailed façade condition audit in a live airport environment. The approach showcased heightened efficiency, safety, and precision, with the digital solution providing benefits that can be replicated across major infrastructure assets, particularly those in live operating environments.
Preston Level Crossing Removal Project Radiant Heat Concrete Curing
Nominees:
· Civil Infrastructure Group
· North Western Program Alliance comprising:
– John Holland
– Kellogg Brown & Root
– Level Crossing Removal Project
– Metro Trains Melbourne
The $564 million Preston Level Crossing Removal forms part of Victoria’s Level Crossing Removal Program administering the removal of 110 dangerous and congested crossings across Melbourne. The project comprised the removal of four level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road on the Mernda Line, construction of two kilometres of elevated rail viaduct, and two new stations and precincts. During early planning, NWPA conducted an intensive optioneering and analysis process that resulted in the development of the Radiant Heat Curing (RHC) engineering solution. NWPA partnered with subcontractor CIG to develop the RHC method, a rapid cast in situ program that constructed the piers and crossheads required to support the viaducts, removing the need to construct and transport large concrete components offsite.
The Judging Panel commended the project’s development and novel use of the RHC method, which reduced the project’s carbon footprint with its accelerated concrete curing times, reduced material use and reduced transport undertaken. The Judges were delighted that the RHC innovation is being deployed on other LXRP and PWA projects and has also become a patented construction method.
Project SABRE (Sydney AutoStrad Botany Rail Expansion)
Nominees:
· Kalmar
· NSW Ports
· Patrick Terminals
· Siemens
· ZPMC
NSW Ports and Patricks Terminals jointly undertook Project SABRE (Sydney AutoStrad Botany Rail Expansion), a $190 million investment to introduce automated rail operations at Patrick Terminals - Sydney AutoStrad at Port Botany. This four-year initiative significantly increased container handling capacity and efficiency by developing a fully automated on-dock rail terminal integrated with an automated straddle-operated container terminal. This projected utilised a range of innovative approaches, including the integration of three Automated Rail Mounted Gantry (ARMG) cranes, digital-twin technology, and remote testing during COVIDrestrictions, while maintaining existing manual rail operations. Three additional ARMG cranes will be installed in the future, when required.
The Judging Panel shortlisted Project SABRE for its use of a wide range of innovative technological solutions to deliver significant increases in port operation efficiency and safety. The Judges were particularly impressed by the longer-term project outcomes on overall operations, with SABRE eventually quadrupling Patrick Terminal’s original rail capacity, and NSW Ports looking to plan similar projects at Port Botany.
Transurban’s Burnley Tunnel Pacemaker Lighting
Nominees:
· Light Project Summit Automation
· SMEC
· Service Stream Maintenance
· Transurban
Transurban’s Burnley Tunnel Pacekmaker Lighting project was implemented to improve traffic flow on one of the busiest roads in Australia. The Burnley Tunnel runs below the Yarra River and has a steep decline and incline for vehicles travelling through, meaning motorists tend to slow down on the incline, contributing to congestion and traffic backlogs in the tunnel. The project implemented a dynamic pacemaker lighting system, which provides visual cue to drivers through green bands of moving light at their peripheral vision in the tunnel, helping them pace their travel while focusing on the road (and adhering to speed limits and road rules).
The Judging Panel recognised the ingenuity of the project, which has resulted in a more than 15 per cent increase in speeds between 4pm to 7pm and average trip time through the tunnel as 50 seconds quicker. Transurban has also seen a reduction in incidents in the tunnel since the system was introduced. The Panel commended the potential this project has in other above-ground applications too, with Transurban looking to include the system in the design of future road and tunnel projects around the world.
Industry Choice Award Finalists 2024
Voted on by Infrastructure Partnerships Australia’s membership and the attendees of the 2024 Awards Dinner, the award recognises a project that demonstrates exceptional customer outcome and/or community benefits. The judging panel will determine the shortlist.
Sponsored by
Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice Manly
Nominees:
· Fugen Constructions
· Health Infrastructure NSW
· Mace Australia
· Northern Sydney Local Health District
The Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH) is a facility dedicated to young people aged between 15 and 24 who require respite care, symptom management, end-of-life care, and care coordination support in the transition from child to adult services. The facility includes telehealth consultation areas, breakout spaces, a multisensory room, games room, and media room, in addition to eight patient bedrooms and two family accommodation units. The facility opened to patients in February 2023, and represents a previously unavailable model of care for young people with life-limiting illnesses.
The Judging Panel shortlisted the project for its distinct benefit to patients who previously had no other options for their unique care and respite needs, in being able to provide dedicated and professional support for families focusing on privacy, respite and recreation. The Judges praised the project team for responding to the brief with a social infrastructure solution that provides a home-like environment including specialised music and art therapy spaces.
Central Walk
Nominees:
· Laing O’Rourke
· Sydney Metro
The $955 million Central Walk is a significant upgrade to Sydney’s busiest rail interchange, Central Station, forming part of the broader Sydney Metro program. The Central Walk project is an 80-metre-long, 19-metre-wide accessible concourse that runs east-west under Central Station, connecting the Chalmers Street (Surry Hills) entrance with the north-south concourse. The project provides direct access to the station from the Surry Hills catchment area, new access points to Sydney Trains platforms 16 to 23, an interchange for passengers from the CBD and South East Light Rail, and escalators directly to suburban platforms. The project was delivered alongside new underground Sydney Metro platforms and an upgraded northern concourse.
The Judging Panel was particularly impressed by the delivery complexity of the project, completed with minimal disruption to usual station operations and passenger thoroughfare. The Panel commended the project for its improved accessibility to the station for customers of various ages and capabilities, including significant improvements to customer flows travelling across train, bus, metro and light rail transport modes. The high-quality architecture and provision of public spaces that enhance safety and amenity were also noted.
Cairns Southern Access Corridor, Stage 3: Edmonton to Gordonvale Project
Nominees:
· AECOM
· John Holland Group
· Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads
· Queensland Rail
· Seymour Whyte
· The APP Group
The Cairns Southern Access Corridor (Stage 3): Edmonton to Gordonvale Project (E2G) forms part of the 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, one of the largest road infrastructure programs in Queensland to date. The project involves the duplication of a 10.5-kilometre section of the highway to create four lanes from Edmonton south to Gordonvale, a shared path and cycleway, and the relocation of two sections of the North Coast rail line for Queensland Rail. HSA Group – a John Holland Group, Seymour Whyte, and AECOM Joint Venture –designed and constructed the project.
The Judging Panel were impressed by the project’s strong emphasis on collaboration and community involvement, noting the significant consultation required between a range of government bodies including TMR, Queensland Rail and local councils throughout the project. The Panel also commended the project’s community economic impact, with over three quarters of the contract value spent within the local community, including $16.1 million spent with Indigenous-owned businesses. The Judges also recognised the range of sustainable strategies deployed throughout the project, including the use of recycled plastic fibre in concrete and the transformation of agricultural land into native vegetation.
New Fitzroy River Bridge
Nominees:
· BMD Constructions
· Georgiou Group
· Main Roads Western Australia
The New Fitzroy River Bridge project, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, responded to the critical need for infrastructure renewal following the damage inflicted by ex-tropical cyclone Ellie in late 2022 and early 2023. The project was successfully delivered between February 2023 and December 2023, six months ahead of the original schedule. The project’s scope of works included demolishing the old bridge and constructing a new 270-metre-long one – designed significantly stronger than its predecessor to address future environmental challenges, a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists and upgrading road approaches. The project’s expedited completion addressed the challenges posed by the remote location, tight timelines, and an expedited procurement process.
The Judging Panel shortlisted the New Fitzroy River Bridge for the successful delivery of high-quality critical infrastructure in a remote location with a compressed timeframe. The Panel were particularly impressed by the delivery of most of the work before the wet season commenced, which meant the project was delivered significantly earlier than planned. The Panel also commended the training and employment opportunities provided to the community, engagement of First Nations-owned businesses, and community participation through the project.
Preston Level Crossing Removal Project
Nominees:
· Civil Infrastructure Group
· North Western Program Alliance comprising:
– John Holland
– Kellogg Brown & Root
– Level Crossing Removal Project
– Metro Trains Melbourne
The $564 million Preston Level Crossing Removal forms part of Victoria’s Level Crossing Removal Program administering the removal of 110 dangerous and congested crossings across Melbourne. The project comprised the removal of four level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road on the Mernda Line, construction of two kilometres of elevated rail viaduct, and two new stations and precincts. With approximately 200 train services operating on the rail line each weekday, the project addressed significant congestion issues caused by boom gates, which previously restricted travel during peak hours by up to 40 per cent.
The Judging Panel recognised the project for its exemplary delivery in a challenging environment, commending the Alliance’s technological innovation and approach to working in a live, physically constrained, and heavily-used rail corridor. The Judges acknowledged the project’s successful community engagement efforts, recognising the positive wider impact on other communities involved in the broader Level Crossing Removal Program.
Future Infrastructure Leader of the Year Award 2024
The Future Infrastructure Leader of the Year Award recognises a person under the age of 35, who has made an outstanding contribution to the infrastructure sector.
The award recognises an individual who significantly contributed to a project, transaction, policy reform or advice during 2023. The Judging Panel gave particular regard to an individual who surpassed expectations and displayed the attributes of a future leader of the sector.
Sponsored by
Jodie Duggan, Winner of the 2023 Future Infrastructure Leader Award
Women’s Achievement in Infrastructure Award 2024
The Women’s Achievement in Infrastructure Award recognises the success of a female who has made a significant contribution to the infrastructure sector. In particular acknowledging their contribution to a project, transaction, policy reform or advice during 2023 or recognising their consistent, valuable demonstration of leadership.
The winner of the Women’s Achievement in Infrastructure Award is a significant contributor to the sector and represents the impactful, unique, and critical role women play in advancing Australian infrastructure.
Sponsored by
Linda Cantan, Winner of the 2023 Women’s Achievement in Infrastructure Award
Project of the Year Award
Finalists 2024
The coveted Project of the Year Award recognises a major, transformational infrastructure project, transaction or policy reform that has been exceptional across all phases of delivery.
Sponsored by
New Fitzroy River Bridge
Nominees:
· BMD Constructions
· Georgiou Group
· Main Roads Western Australia
The New Fitzroy River Bridge project, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, responded to the critical need for infrastructure renewal following the damage inflicted by ex-tropical cyclone Ellie in late 2022 and early 2023. The project was successfully delivered between February 2023 and December 2023, six months ahead of the original schedule. The project’s scope of works included demolishing the old bridge and constructing a new 270-metre-long one – designed significantly stronger than its predecessor to address future environmental challenges, a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists and upgrading road approaches. The project’s expedited completion addressed the challenges posed by the remote location, tight timelines, and an expedited procurement process.
The Judging Panel acknowledged the remarkable efficiency of the project’s execution, particularly considering the remote location and tight timelines during the dry season. Early engagement with all Traditional Custodians of the Fitzroy Valley facilitated a successful and quick heritage approvals process that would typically span years. Additionally, collaborative partnerships were instrumental in expediting the design and production of essential bridge components sourced nationally. The numerous positive outcomes of the project were also noted, including improved road safety, enhanced road network resilience, and support for local economic development and job creation in the Kimberely region.
Preston Level Crossing Removal Project
Nominees:
· Civil Infrastructure Group
· North Western Program Alliance comprising:
– John Holland
– Kellogg Brown & Root
– Level Crossing Removal Project
– Metro Trains Melbourne
The $564 million Preston Level Crossing Removal forms part of Victoria’s Level Crossing Removal Program administering the removal of 110 dangerous and congested crossings across Melbourne. The project comprised the removal of four level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road on the Mernda Line, construction of two kilometres of elevated rail viaduct, and two new stations and precincts. With approximately 200 train services operating on the rail line each weekday, the project addressed significant congestion issues caused by boom gates, which previously restricted travel during peak hours by up to 40 per cent.
The Judging Panel praised the Preston Level Crossing Removal project for its outstanding delivery in a demanding setting, lauding the North Western Program Alliance’s innovative techniques, community engagement strategy, and revitalisation of a formerly inaccessible corridor into public open space. The Panel also commended the project’s pioneering use of the Radiant Heat Curing construction method, significantly cutting carbon emissions and costs. Furthermore, the Judges acknowledged Alliance’s integrated and collaborative approach during delivery, incorporating lessons from previous projects to save taxpayer money and drive engineering advancements. Successful management of a busy site, with minimal disruptions, also ensured community support.
Prince of Wales Hospital Acute Services Building
Nominees:
· Arcadis
· Aurecon
· Health Infrastructure
· La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council
· Lendlease
· Scyne Advisory
· South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
· Sydney Children’s Hospital Network
· The Gujaga Foundation
· UNSW
The 13-storey Prince of Wales Hospital Acute Services Building, which opened last year, was delivered as part of the first stage of the Randwick Campus Redevelopment. The $870 million project included an expanded adult emergency department, intensive care unit and psychiatric emergency care centre, a new digital operating theatre, central sterilising services department, additional inpatient beds, and two bridge connections into the existing hospital and Royal Hospital for Women. When completed, the Randwick Campus Redevelopment will establish the Randwick Health and Education Precinct containing world-class education, research and healthcare organisations in one location.
The Judging Panel commended the project as the first major upgrade to the Prince of Wales Hospital in 25 years, delivering social infrastructure that will support innovative approaches to acute healthcare and contemporary clinical practice. The Judges were impressed by how the project team overcame delivery challenges posed by both its confined site and live operational environment, being adjacent to critical healthcare services operating throughout construction during the throngs of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Panel was impressed by the use of innovative delivery methods to mitigate health and safety risks, such as vibration, dust and other construction impacts, on existing patients.
Vector Metering Transaction
Nominees:
· Green loan Joint sustainability coordinators: MUFG Bank, NAB and Westpac
· QIC Private Capital
· Vector Metering
· Vector Limited
· Advisors: JP Morgan, Craigs Investment Partners, Herbert Smith Freehills and Russell McVeagh
In 2023, Vector Limited completed the sale of a 50 per cent interest in Vector Metering to investment vehicles managed and advised by QIC Private Capital in a deal valued at A$2.3 billion. Vector Metering, now rebranded as Bluecurrent and jointly owned by Vector and QIC, is one of Australasia’s largest metering platforms and manages over 2.4 million meters across Australia and New Zealand. It also funds and installs smart meter assets under long-term service contracts and provides digital services to its customers. The joint venture transaction expanded QIC’s global investments in the energy transition to A$9.5 billion.
The Judging Panel recognised the long-term joint venture as one of the first transactions of its kind for investors seeking to support the energy transition. In recognising it as an industry first, the Panel also noted that in particular, the A$1.6 billion Climate Bonds Certified green loan secured during the transaction was the first Use of Proceeds instrument to be issued under the new Climate Bonds Standard 4.0 – as well as the largest Climate Bonds Certified green loan under Climate Bonds’ Electrical Grids and Storage eligibility criteria.
WestConnex M4-M8 Link Tunnels project
Nominees:
· ACCIONA Samsung Bouygues Joint Venture
· Sydney Transport Partners (comprised of Transurban, AustralianSuper, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Tawreed Investments)
· Transport for NSW
· Transurban
The $3.2 billion WestConnex M4-M8 link project saw the delivery of a new twin tunnel system linking the existing M4 motorway at Haberfield to the M8 motorway at St Peters. The project features 7.5 kilometre-long mainline tunnels, reaching an average depth of 35 metres beneath the surface, and forming a continuous 33 kilometre-motorway network across Sydney. The tunnels have a 100-year design life and have connections in place to other major projects including Rozelle Interchange, Sydney Airport and a further connection to the south via the M6 tunnels. A key deliverable of the project, 28 road-headers were used during tunnelling, with 8.7 million tonnes of spoil removed from site and beneficially re-used – including at Western Sydney Airport.
It was clear to the Judging Panel in considering this project’s shortlisting in both the Contractor Excellence and the Government Partnerships Excellence Award categories that this project was a candidate for Project of the Year. Not only was it delivered ahead of schedule and on budget, but it has set a world-leading benchmark for connecting infrastructure assets and had a transformative impact on Sydney’s transport network. The project has achieved significant sustainability standards, including a 42 per cent reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions during construction and a 63 per cent reduction over the design life. The Panel also praised the use of an Operational Management Control System, which allows for the coordinated operation of the two motorways and link tunnel by centralising control functionalities, resulting in efficient operations of the three connected projects.
Our Sponsors
Infrastructure Partnerships Australia would like to thank all of the award sponsors
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Project Of The Year Award Sponsor
Financial Excellence Award Sponsor
Contractor Excellence Award Sponsor
Innovation Excellence Award Sponsor
Future Infrastructure Leader Award Sponsor
Advisory Excellence Award Sponsor
Government Partnerships Excellence Award Sponsor
Operator & Service Provider Excellence Award Sponsor
Industry Choice Award Sponsor
Women’s Achievement In Infrastructure Award Sponsor
Past Winners
2023 Project of the Year
Sydney Airport Transaction
Allens, Australian Retirement Trust, AustralianSuper, Global Infrastructure Partners, Goldman Sachs, Herbert Smith Freehills, IFM Investors, Macquarie Bank, Sydney Airport, UBS, Unisuper
2022 Project of the Year
Bruce Highway, Haughton River Floodplain Upgrade project
Arup Group, Australian Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, BMD Constructions, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads
2021 Project of the Year
New Parallel Runway SkyWay Joint Venture (comprising of CPB Contractors and BMD Constructions)
2020 Project of the Year
Sydney Metro Northwest
AECOM, Clayton Utz, CPB Contractors, Dragados, EY, Jacobs, John Holland, Sydney Metro, Turner & Townsend, Webuild, Northwest Rapid Transit: CPB Contractors, John Holland, MTR Corporation, Plenary Group, UGL Rail Services
2019 Project of the Year
The WestConnex Transaction
NSW Treasury and Transport for NSW (Roads and Maritime Services) and their advisors; Allens, Ashurst, BIS Oxford Economics, Clayton Utz, GHD, Goldman Sachs, Newgate Australia, Turner & Townsend, and PwC. Sydney Transport Partners (Transurban, AustralianSuper, Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board, and Tawreed Investments) and their advisors; Advisian, Aquasia, Clifford Chance, EY, E3 Advisory, Greenwoods & Herbert Smith Freehills, King & Wood Mallesons, KPMG, Macquarie Capital, Morgan Stanley, UBS, and WSP
2018 Project of the Year
Ravenhall Prison Project
RPS Advisory Services, Clayton Utz, AECOM, EY, the Victorian Department of Justice & Regulation and the GEO Consortium comprising: Capella Capital, GEO Group Australia, John Holland and Honeywell
2017 Project of the Year
International Convention Centre Sydney Darling Harbour Live Consortium comprising: AEG Ogden, Capella Capital, First State Super, Hostplus, Lendlease and Spotless, Advisian, Clayton Utz, Herbert Smith Freehills, KPMG, NSW Government
2016 Project of the Year
Barangaroo Reserve
Advisian, Aurecon, Barangaroo Delivery Authority, Lendlease, WSP
2015 Project of the Year
Legacy Way
Brisbane City Council, EY, National Australia Bank, Transcity Joint Venture consisting of Acciona, BMD Constructions, Ghella
2014 Project of the Year
Regional Rail Link
Regional Rail Link Authority, Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities, AECOM, Alstom, Aurecon, Balfour Beatty, Coleman Rail, Downer EDI, GHD, Hyder, John Holland, Lendlease, Leighton Contractors, Metro Trains Melbourne, Parsons Brinckerhoff, RPS, Sinclair Knight Merz, Thiess, UGL, V/Line