Construcciones Yamaro, by Armando Iachini

Image: homeganko/stock.adobe.com The Federal and NSW governments are progressing plans to upgrade Sheahan Bridge on the Hume Highway at Gundagai, aiming to improve freight access and road safety. The $20 million jointly funded planning project has entered its next phase, with WSP Australia awarded the contract to develop a concept design and conduct environmental assessments for either upgrading or replacing the northbound bridge over the Murrumbidgee River. Built in 1977, the existing northbound bridge had its load limit increased from 68 to 85 tonnes in 2020. However, Higher Productivity Vehicles still require permits to travel on the NSW section of the Hume Highway due to structural limitations. These constraints also restrict contraflow options during emergencies or maintenance on the southbound bridge. Related stories: The marvels of glass-reinforced concrete Greenline Project summit announced before construction kicks off Major lift marks milestone for Kangaroo Point G...

Komatsu’s Live Your Dream program grants employees $10,000 to support a charity of their choice. (Image: Komatsu) Kimberly Ward, a Komatsu employee and survivor of domestic violence, is using her experience to support organisations like Friends with Dignity. Friends with Dignity assists victims of domestic violence in rebuilding their lives by providing essential services to individuals and families. The organisation’s mission is to help survivors regain independence and confidence, free from fear or judgment. Through Komatsu’s Live Your Dream program, which grants employees $10,000 to support a charity of their choice, Ward is raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding help-seeking. “I want to show that survivors are not alone, and it’s never their fault,” she says. Determined to give back, Ward has organised a drive at Komatsu’s Fairfield branch, set up a donation page, and hosted a fundraising raffle that raised over $1,100. She also completed the ‘Treetops Adven...

Daniel Giles, CFO of Payapps. (Image: Payapps) As the construction industry struggles to attract and retain skilled talent, a Payapps survey finds that labour shortages and manual processes are hindering finance teams in Australia and New Zealand. The report underscores the urgent need for digital transformation to improve efficiency and support long-term sustainability. The survey of 125 finance professionals from commercial construction companies found that 36 per cent ranked talent shortages as their biggest challenge, with dissatisfaction over manual progress claim processes also a major concern. The findings suggest that reliance on outdated systems may be exacerbating employee retention issues in the sector. Daniel Giles, CFO of Payapps, explained that construction finance teams play a central role in managing complex regulatory requirements while also supporting project delivery timelines. “This report underscores the need for the construction industry to adopt technolo...

The Australian Government has released the final report for the Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System. (Image: sharafmaksumov/stock.adobe.com) Master Builders Australia has welcomed the final report for the Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System, which addresses key challenges employers face in attracting and retaining apprentices, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The building and construction industry comprises over 445,000 businesses, 98 per cent of which are small, according to Master Builders … The post Builders call for action on apprenticeship incentive reform appeared first on Inside Construction . View Source

VEGA Australia’s solutions optimise bulk material handling. (Image: Enrique del Barrio/stock.adobe.com) As Converge 2025 gathers momentum, VEGA Australia is bringing its instrumentation expertise to the stage, highlighting the critical but often understated role of measurement technology in construction and municipal works. With decades of experience and innovation in pressure and level measurement technologies, VEGA’s participation underscores the event’s emphasis on innovation and collaboration. Converge is the only Australian-owned major event showcasing the latest tools and technology across municipal works, civil and commercial construction. It serves as a one-stop shop for subcontractors, project engineers, council fleet managers and construction contractors seeking solutions to challenges within the built environment. VEGA’s solutions are built to meet the unique challenges of construction, from monitoring cement silo levels in dusty environments to ensuring precision in...

The KONE High-Rise MiniSpace DX is designed to enhance the overall user experience. (Image: KONE) KONE Australia has introduced the High-Rise MiniSpace DX, an elevator system designed to optimise space, improve efficiency and streamline people flow in buildings of any height. This cutting-edge solution will debut in BLVD, the third tower of OSK Property’s Melbourne Square precinct, currently under construction by Multiplex. The High-Rise MiniSpace DX offers several advantages, including maximising usable floor space by providing an extra floor, enhancing tenant appeal and building efficiency. Its engineering enables increased capacity and speed within elevator shafts, while minimising pit depths, headroom and motor room heights. These features address the challenges of attracting tenants in a competitive post-COVID market with higher supply and lower demand. Related stories: KONE elevates the future of urban living KONE’s digital elevator redefines vertical transportation at ...

The Women in Construction Summit 2025 will feature a wide range of inspirational speakers. (Image: Quest Events) Following the success of last year’s event, the Women in Construction Summit is set to return in 2025 with a fresh lineup of speakers, new content, innovative formats, and opportunities to connect with peers across the industry. This year’s summit will highlight real-world examples of how organisations and people are fostering diversity in construction. A diverse roster of inspirational speakers , including C-suite executives, managers and trade professionals, will share their insights and experiences. Attendees can expect to gain technical expertise, develop sought-after skills and refine leadership strategies – all in an inclusive environment that champions diversity, equity and inclusion in the construction sector. Headline speakers include: Cathryn Greville, chief executive officer, The National Association of Women In Construction (NAWIC) Jessie Murray, com...

Artist’s impression: The Buckingham. (Image: SMFA) South Australian developer Citify has received planning approval for a $200 million mixed-use precinct on a prominent gateway site in Adelaide. The project, The Buckingham, secured approval from the State Commission Assessment Panel on 22 January 2025. Located on a 6,290-square-metre site behind the former Buckingham Arms Hotel in Gilberton, just 3km from Adelaide’s CBD, … The post Citify gets green light for $200M mixed-use precinct in Adelaide appeared first on Inside Construction . View Source

Empowered Women in Trades underscores the transformative power of language in shaping cultural change. (Image: Gorodenkoff/stock.adobe.com) Empowered Women in Trades argues that while breaking down barriers and navigating cultural change are often discussed, the time for action has arrived. By Melinda Davis, COO of Empowered Women in Trades. The conversations around breaking down barriers for women and navigating cultural change are often robust, fuelled by people who don’t just want better for women, but for all humans. The thing with conversations is that they’re all talk. They are great catalysts for sharing ideas and knowledge, but it’s the actions that follow these conversations where we often fall short – and it’s through action that we would begin to see changes come to life. A change in culture is not something we can simply talk about and then sit back and watch happen. It takes time. It needs to be something we collectively believe in, something we know will bring abou...

University of South Australia structural engineer Professor Yan Zhuge. (Image: University of South Australia) A new piece of equipment being trialled at the University of South Australia (UniSA) in 2025 may offer a lifeline for Australia’s deteriorating infrastructure. UniSA structural engineer Professor Yan Zhuge is leading efforts to enhance the Hopkinson bar, a tool in civil engineering used to test building materials under extreme mechanical stress. With a $720,000 … The post UniSA trials solution for Australia’s ageing infrastructure appeared first on Inside Construction . View Source

Image: Gorodenkoff/stock.adobe.com In exciting news for Converge 2025, Australia’s premier event for municipal works, civil and commercial construction, the Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) Victoria has joined as an Association Partner. Converge 2025 will unite professionals across the construction and infrastructure sectors, including subcontractors, project engineers, council fleet managers and large-scale contractors. The event promises to showcase cutting-edge innovations, foster valuable connections, and explore the future of major projects. The partnership with CCF Victoria further solidifies Converge 2025 as a vital industry platform. CCF Victoria, a leading advocate for the civil construction sector, provides essential support, training and resources to its members. These members are the driving force behind Australia’s critical infrastructure, from roads and bridges to pipelines, ports and utilities. They also play a key role in land development, ensuring access to ess...

Mike Rinaudo, head of Defence at DT Infrastructure. (Image: DT Infrastructure) DT Infrastructure has appointed Mike Rinaudo as its new head of Defence, leveraging his 30 years of experience across the Defence, aviation and infrastructure sectors. Rinaudo’s career includes leadership roles in construction, consulting and the Royal Australian Air Force , equipping him with the expertise to advance DT Infrastructure’s Defence portfolio. He has successfully delivered complex projects, including airfields, explosive ordnance facilities and major base redevelopments. He has worked with organisations such as ADCO, AECOM, Laing O’Rourke and the Royal Australian Air Force, excelling in project delivery, client management and strategic leadership. Notably, Rinaudo’s achievements include leading the North Queensland Mid-Term Refresh Program, the Larrakeyah Barracks Redevelopment, and the Moorebank Units Relocation. Related stories: Boeing breaks ground on new production facility in T...

Image: ChrisTYCat/stock.adobe.com We’re reaching out to offer your brand the opportunity to be featured in Smart Buildings: Innovations for a connected and efficient tomorrow – our upcoming feature highlighting the transformative solutions driving the evolution of smart buildings. Smart buildings are redefining commercial construction, integrating advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and energy-efficient systems to create connected, sustainable and adaptive spaces. This is a unique chance to showcase your role in reshaping the built environment, from intelligent lighting and climate control to data-driven management platforms and cutting-edge building practices. By participating in our April 2025 feature, your company can: Showcase its expertise in designing smarter, more efficient buildings. Highlight its commitment to sustainability and occupant wellbeing. Gain additional exposure to industry leaders at the Future of Construction Summit 2025 . The offer includes:...

‘The not-so-little things affecting women in construction’ report by the National Association of Women in Construction reveals real lived experiences. (Image: Yada/stock.adobe.com) Despite recent progress, a survey by the National Association of Women in Construction reveals that microaggressions and harassment remain common challenges for women in the industry. By the National Association of Women in Construction . Women are increasingly being encouraged to join the construction industry, which is promoted as a place to grow, thrive and succeed, with workplaces offering flexible working arrangements, progressive policies, attractive wages and opportunities for both professional and personal development. However, a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and TDC Global shows that the reality can be quite different. The not-so-little things affecting women in construction survey explores how organisations can better address and preven...

Precast concrete elements were expertly utilised to create the eye-catching façade of the Wee Hur Student Village. (Images: National Precast) Situated in the vibrant Sydney suburb of Redfern, the Wee Hur Student Village emerges as a premier student housing complex, blending modern design with practical functionality. By the  National Precast Concrete Association Australia (National Precast) . Project – Wee Hur Student Village Location – Redfern, New South Wales Master Precaster – Advanced Precast Builder – Richard Crookes Constructions Architect – AJC Architects Engineer – Webbed Design – WEBBER Located at 13-23 Gibbons Street in Redfern, New South Wales, this project is a testament to the transformative power of architectural innovation and the seamless integration of precast concrete elements. A fusion of design and practicality The Wee Hur Student Village stands as a striking example of how AJC Architects’ visionary design became a reality by teaming u...

“As a leader in the construction industry, it is important to explore your own unconscious bias. What assumptions are you subconsciously making about people?” (Image: Kostiantyn/stock.adobe.com) Dr Gretchen Gagel’s journey as a trailblazer in the construction industry shows how barriers can be broken and lights the way for the next generation of female leaders ready to make their mark. By Dr Gretchen Gagel. When speaking at conferences or to groups of leaders, I am often asked to share my personal story of success in the construction industry. I took that request to heart when writing my soon-to-be-released book, Building Women Leaders: A Blueprint for Women Thriving in Construction. While the voices and ideas of over 120 thought leaders are included, my personal story also shines through. Dr Gretchen Gagel. (Image: Heidi Victoria) My father disowned me when, at 17 years of age, I turned down my Harvard admission to attend engineering school at Southern Methodist University...

Caitlyn Knox, mobile plant mechanic at Komatsu. (Images: Orville Tagud – Greater Visuals) Caitlyn Knox didn’t set out to become a mobile plant mechanic – let alone thrive in the role – but her journey from business student to award-winning heavy industry professional at Komatsu proves that taking a leap of faith can lead to extraordinary opportunities. Knox’s path began far from the world of heavy machinery. Initially pursuing a business degree, she soon realised that it wasn’t the right fit for her. Rather than sticking with an uninspiring path, Knox made a bold decision to enrol in a construction pathways course at TAFE. It was a move that would change her life. “I found I loved working with my hands and being outdoors,” she recalls. “It just clicked for me.” With her newfound passion, Knox dove into the job market, applying for over 20 roles in various fields. Despite not knowing much about the construction industry, her tenacity led her to secure an apprenticeship with Komat...

Edge 2 provides highly accurate 3D terrain maps of construction sites. (Images: IndustriArc) The Komatsu Smart Construction Edge 2 is moving surveying forward by enhancing speed, safety and accuracy through cutting-edge technology. Surveying has always been a cornerstone of construction, but traditional methods are often time-consuming and carry safety risks. Thanks to innovations like aerial surveying via drones, the process is evolving. Komatsu’s Smart Construction Edge 2 takes this even further by providing faster data availability, reducing downtime and enabling rapid processing – empowering project teams to make informed decisions quickly. Edge 2’s impact on construction workflows becomes evident immediately. It provides drone pilots with an intuitive, seamless setup and flight workflow, enhancing efficiency and ensuring greater accuracy. James Mackenzie, product manager for Smart Construction at Komatsu and expert in drone technology, describes it as an all-in-one solution...

Ford is set to launch the Ranger Super Duty in 2026. (Image: Ford) Set to launch in 2026, the Ford Ranger Super Duty is designed to expand the boundaries of what a mid-size utility vehicle can do. Engineered in Australia for industries that demand high performance, including construction and infrastructure works, this game-changing ute combines rugged design with features built to endure extreme conditions and heavy-duty tasks. With an emphasis on heavy-duty capability, load-carrying and towing capacity, the Ranger Super Duty is set to support productivity on construction sites of all scales and complexities, including in remote locations. Developed in collaboration with heavy‑duty fleet operators and the team behind Australia’s top-selling 4×4, it’s built to meet the high demands of mid-size truck users. Key features enable construction workers to: Tow more: Boasting a 4,500kg maximum braked towing capacity, the Ranger Super Duty can haul a wide range of heavy supplies, eart...

Dominique Gill, founder and managing director of Urban Core, and founder and chair of NexGen. (Image: Urban Core) Highlighting the women leading change in the construction industry, NexGen showcases the journey of its founder, Dominique Gill. By Lauren Fahey, executive director at NexGen . When I was asked to write about women breaking barriers in construction, NexGen founder Dominique Gill instantly came to mind. It’s rare to see women running a business in any industry, let alone in construction, and Dominique’s journey with Urban Core is nothing short of inspiring. Starting from scratch in 2016, she’s built an incredible business recognised as one of Australia’s ‘Fast Starters’ by The Australian Financial Review. But it’s not just about growth for Dominique – she’s on a mission to do things differently and push for change. Lauren Fahey, executive director at NexGen. (Image: NexGen) This year, Urban Core has achieved what many might think is impossible: a 50 per cent gend...