Archived News for Engineering Professionals - June, 2012
The Federal Government has awarded the final six contracts for the multi-billion Regional Rail Link, with the final work package awarded to the Leighton-Downer Joint venture. The $43 million contract will be to design and construct the West Werribee Junction work package.
To date, the Federal Government has committed $3.2 billion to the Regional Rail Link through the Nation Building Program, with the Victorian Government providing the balance of funding.
The rail link will ensure that Victoria's three largest regional cities, Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat, will have their own dedicated tracks through the metropolitan system, improving the capacity and on time performance for metro and regional services.
More gas investment for the Northern Territory
A new agreement between Santos, ConocoPhillips and major Korean energy company, SK E&S, will advance the development of gas discoveries in the Timor Sea. The agreement will see the progression of the development of the Caldita and Barossa gas discoveries.
NSW announces $5 billion for roads and maritime
The New South wales Government has announced it will invest $5 billion to build and maintain critical road and maritime infrastructures across the state.
NSW awash with Federal Murray funding
The Federal Government has announced $469 million in funding to support four major new infrastructure projects in New South Wales.
Construction industry hits two years of contraction
Australia’s construction industry has recorded its 24th consecutive month of contraction according to the latest figures released by the Australian Industry Group (AI Group).
Low productivity threatens major projects
The Business Council of Australia (BCA) has warned that waning productivity and inflating costs are risking Australia’s unprecedented $921 billion pipeline of major investment in resources, energy and economic infrastructure. New research released by the council shows for the first time just how much capital investment is driving the economy.
Norsk Hydro confirms Kurri Kurri closure
Norwegian smeling giant Norsk Hydro has announced it has confirmed the closure of its Kurri Kurri aluminium plant following a consultation period with the company’s local employees.
Tapping geothermal energy to create fresh water for WA
Researchers at The University of Western Australia will investigate the use of geothermal energy to desalinate groundwater in WA.
Two new rail corridors for Queensland coal basins
The Queensland Government has announced two new rail corridors to service new and existing coal mines in the Galilee and Bowen Basins. The east-west corridor will see an expansion of the existing QR National network near Moranbah to the central Galilee Basin and will provide links to coal ports of Abbot Point, Dalrymple Bay and Dudgeon Point.
SA seeks input for automotive industry
The South Australian Government has announced it is seeking feedback on a cross-government initiative aimed at ensuring the long-term success of the country’s automotive industry.
Committee announced to oversee Pilbara infrastructure development
The Western Australian Government has announced the appointment of a steering committee to oversee the development of the proposed Pilbara Maritime CUF (PMCUF) in the state’s North-West region.
Inquiry into NSW dams
The NSW Legislative Council’s State Development Committee has received terms of reference for an inquiry into the adequacy of water storages in NSW.
New director for ACA
The Australian Constructors Association has announced the appointment of Lindsay Le Compte as the association’s new Executive Director. Mr Le Compte will take the role after Jim Barrett retires after 17 years in the position.
NSW awards Inner West Light Rail Extension contract
The New South Wales Government has announced it has awarded the contract for the design and construction of Sydney’s Inner West Light Rail Extension to John Holland. The company will be responsible for the detailed design and construction of the main infrastructure elements of the light rail project.