Seven projects have been chosen as finalists to compete for the prestigious 2023 Australian Construction Achievement Award by Engineers Australia and the Australian Constructors Association (ACAA).According to Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association, the award is one of the highest forms of recognition for a project because it not only recognises excellence in traditional construction, such as how physical challenges were overcome, but also excellence in initiatives aimed at making the sector more productive and pleasant to work in.

“These projects have implemented digital tools and processes to improve productivity, training and development initiatives to equip workers with critical skills, flexible working environments to support workers’ mental and physical health –and much more. Australia’s construction industry will be stronger because of this,” Mr Davies said.

Engineers Australia CEO, Romilly Madew, said, “The Australian Construction Achievement Award finalists have given us a masterclass in innovation, teamwork and skill while shining a spotlight on the role engineering plays in connecting our communities through construction excellence.”

The ACAA, which is now in its 26th year, is the most prestigious award in the sector, honouring the best construction projects carried out by the best construction firms in the country. Once again, some of the largest companies involved in the construction sector, including Adbri, Caterpillar, Cbus, InEight, and InfraBuild, have cooperated with this prestigious award.

The 2023 ACAA Finals are:

Echuca-Moama Bridge Project – Stage 3

By Major Road Projects Victoria and McConnell Dowell Constructors (Australia)

Comprising building a second Murray River bridge between Echuca and Moama, as well as an earth embankment, a bridge over the Campaspe River, and flood relief bridges on the nearby floodplains. Provided by Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) and built by McConnell Dowell on the Yorta Yorta people's ancestral grounds in Victoria and New South Wales.

Edithvale, Chelsea and Bonbeach Level Crossing Removal Project

By Southern Program Alliance (ACCIONA Rail, WSP, Metro Trains Melbourne, and the Level Crossing Removal Project) 

The Edithvale, Chelsea, and Bonbeach Level Crossing Removal Project package from Melbourne's Southern Program Alliance (SPA) involved the demolition of five hazardous and clogged level crossings and the construction of three new stations on the Frankston line. Improvements improved the station precinct surroundings, provided vehicles and pedestrians with secure passage across the rail corridor, and enhanced the Frankston line passenger experience.

M4-M5 Link Tunnels Project (WestConnex Stage 3A)

By ACCIONA Samsung Bouygues Joint Venture

The $3.2 billion WestConnex M4-M5 Link Tunnels project is being built in Sydney in collaboration with ASB Joint Venture (ACCIONA Construction Australia, Samsung C&T, and Bouygues Construction Australia) and WestConnex, which is owned and operated by a group of investors led by the toll road company Transurban.

A total of 21,580 metres of tunnel were built as part of the M4-M5 Link Tunnels project, which connected the M4 at Haberfield to the M8 at St. Peters. These tunnels were also integrated into the WestConnex Integrated Operation and Management Control System (IOMCS).

The project required excavation, civil, mechanical, and electrical (M&E) work over three main sites, including the construction of surface ventilation buildings, cut-and-cover structures, local roadworks, and a water treatment plant, as well as the energization of six substations and two low point sumps.

M80 Ring Road Upgrade Sydney Road to Edgars Road

By CPB Contractors and Major Road Projects Victoria

Between Sydney and Edgars roads, 5.7 km of the M80 Ring Road was enlarged as part of the M80 Upgrade. Lanes, ramps, collector distributors, and a smart motorway system were all added while maintaining daily traffic flows of 165,000 cars. The project was completed a year earlier than expected and $122 million under the client's budget thanks to clever technical solutions and a strong innovation and sustainability culture.

Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 Infrastructure Contract

By Parramatta Connect (CPB Contractors Downer EDI Works Joint Venture)

With 16 completely accessible stations, 12 new or renovated bridges, and a two-way track measuring 12 km, Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail connects Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD. It also extends for 5 km along the existing Carlingford and Sandown Lines. It is anticipated that services will start in 2024. The project's infrastructure works package was delivered by Parramatta Link.

Parramatta Square Precinct – 3, 4, 6&8 Parramatta Square & PHIVE Parramatta Square

By Built

Walker Corporation and Parramatta Council hired Built (in a joint venture with Obayashi) to complete one of Australia's greatest urban regeneration projects, which included four commercial towers, a civic centre, and a public domain for the brand-new $2.8 billion Parramatta Square complex. The developments included commercial/retail buildings and fit outs, connected basements, integrated transport connections, and public domain improvements, establishing Parramatta as Sydney's second CBD.

Sydney Football Stadium Redevelopment

By John Holland Group

This world class entertainment arena, which can accommodate up to 42,500 people, was made for the fans. Its improved design facilitates accessibility, safety, sightlines, and operational efficiencies while providing visitors and customers with the finest possible entertainment experience.

Because of a high performing team culture, this complicated structure was an integrated engineered solution that was delivered to the highest quality, on time, and within budget.

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