A record number of contenders up for the infrastructure industry’s highest honour have been reduced to seven in the lead up to the Australian Construction Achievement Award (ACAA).
Presented by the Australian Constructors Association and Engineers Australia, the ACAA recognises not only construction and engineering excellence, but also how these projects are shaping a more progressive and sustainable construction industry.
Australian Constructors Association CEO, Jon Davies, said 2025 marks a record number of finalists, reflecting the industry’s commitment to building a better future.
“This year’s finalists represent an impressive array of transport and infrastructure projects delivered across Australia.
“These projects showcase smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver projects. From reducing environmental impact to prioritising worker wellbeing, diversity and skills development, these contractors are leading the way.”
Engineers Australia CEO, Romilly Madew, said the 2025 contenders stand out for their ability to integrate engineering ingenuity with sustainability and community-centric development.
“The ACCA finalists represent the best in Australian engineering, demonstrating how collaboration, technology and strategic planning can drive transformational projects that connect and strengthen communities,” Ms Madew said.
Now in its 28th year, this premier construction industry award is supported by major industry partners including Caterpillar, Cbus, Gallagher, InEight, InfraBuild and Pinsent Masons.
Finalists will be honoured, and the winner announced, at a black-tie awards dinner at The Star Hotel in Brisbane on 6 August 2025, in conjunction with the Foundations and Frontiers forum (FF25).
The ACAA Finalists for 2025 are:
METRONET Morley – Ellenbrook Line
Contractor: Laing O’Rourke Public Transport Authority (PTA)
Location: Perth, Western Australia
The METRONET Morley – Ellenbrook Line has transformed public transport in Perth’s northeast corridor, delivering 21km of new rail and five new stations at Morley, Noranda, Ballajura, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook.
The project involved significant infrastructure works, including the construction of two major rail viaducts measuring 900m and 300m, three new intersections, two road bridges, one rail bridge and a rail tunnel.
Additionally, three pedestrian underpasses, two fauna underpasses, and 150,000 railway sleepers were installed, alongside the creation of 3,300 parking bays to support commuters.
New Bridgewater Bridge
Contractor: McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd
Location: Hobart, Tasmania
As Tasmania’s largest transport infrastructure project, the new Bridgewater Bridge strengthens the state’s National Highway, providing a critical link between the Brooker and Midland Highways.
The 1.2km bridge now accommodates two lanes in each direction, significantly improving traffic flow and connectivity for local communities. New interchanges at Bridgewater and Granton enhance road safety and efficiency, while a dedicated shared path ensures a safe route for cyclists and pedestrians.
Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project (Pakenham LXRP)
Contractor: North Western Program Alliance (Level Crossing Removal Project, John Holland, Metro Trains Melbourne, Kellogg Brown Root (KBR))
Location: Pakenham, Victoria
The Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project has eliminated three of the region’s most congested level crossings at McGregor Road, Main Street, and Racecourse Road.
A new 2km elevated rail viaduct was constructed to improve safety and traffic flow, while Pakenham Station was completely rebuilt. The rail line was also extended and duplicated to the newly constructed East Pakenham Station, enhancing reliability for both V/Line and Metro services. The upgraded station precincts feature improved intermodal bus connectivity and expanded parking facilities, creating a seamless commuter experience.
South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication Project
Contractor: DT Infrastructure Pty Ltd
Location: South Geelong, Victoria
Delivered by the Djilang Alliance, the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication Project has significantly upgraded rail infrastructure in Victoria’s southwest.
The project successfully removed two level crossings at Surf Coast Highway and Fyans Street, improving safety and easing congestion. Two elevated rail bridges were constructed as part of the duplication of over 8km of track, ensuring smoother and more reliable train services.
Additionally, South Geelong and Marshall Stations underwent major upgrades, providing enhanced facilities for passengers.
Sydney Gateway Stage 1 and 3
Contractor: John Holland and Seymour Whyte Constructions Joint Venture
Location: Sydney, New South Wales
The Sydney Gateway project, spanning Stages 1 and 3, delivers a critical new motorway connection between the St Peters Interchange (WestConnex tunnel network) and Sydney Airport.
This major infrastructure project includes the construction of 19 bridge structures and more than 5km of new road, significantly enhancing connectivity and reducing congestion in one of the city’s busiest transport corridors.
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Stage 3 Redevelopment
Contractor: Built Environs Pty Ltd
Location: Woodville, South Australia
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Stage 3 Redevelopment represents a major milestone in South Australian healthcare, featuring the country’s first all-electric six-star public healthcare building.
Named Kangkanthi, a Kaurna word meaning ‘to care,’ this cutting-edge facility has been delivered by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport and SA Health, with construction by Built Environs.
The five-level Clinical Service Building includes a 46-bay emergency department, 12 state-of-the-art operating theatres, a 14-bed intensive care unit, and advanced imaging and procedure rooms, providing world-class medical services to the community.
Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project
Contractor: Armadale Line Upgrade Alliance (Public Transport Authority of Western Australia, ACCIONA, B.M.D Constructions Pty Ltd, WSP Australia Pty Ltd, AECOM Australia Pty Ltd)
Location: Perth, Western Australia
The METRONET Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project is a transformative infrastructure initiative that enhances safety, connectivity, and urban development.
The project includes six major intersection modifications and the removal of existing level crossings, while five new elevated stations and two bus interchanges, featuring 24 bus stands, will streamline transport services. The construction of 4km of elevated rail improves network efficiency, while major utility upgrades and 6ha of landscaped public space create vibrant, accessible community areas.
Further details about the finalists and the ACAA are available at https://acaa.net.au/
