The nation’s most outstanding construction projects have been named as finalists of the 2026 Australian Construction Achievement Award
Seven major projects from across the country, representing more than $17 billion in construction value, have been announced as finalists for the 2026 Australian Construction Achievement Award (ACAA).
This year’s shortlist spans city‑defining education precincts, nation‑building transport links, world‑class health infrastructure, marine and aviation gateways, and rapid disaster‑recovery works.
They demonstrate the industry’s central role in delivering the infrastructure that supports communities and drives national progress.
Australian Constructors Association CEO Jon Davies says the strong field reflects an industry pushing forward despite challenging conditions.
“For an industry that often battles poor public perception, these projects are powerful reminders of what’s possible when the sector is set up for success,” he says.
“Everyone benefits, from clients, contractors, workers, taxpayers and the communities who rely on this infrastructure.
“We’ve matched last year’s record number of finalists, proving the sector is finding new ways of working and delivering better outcomes against all odds.”
Now in its 29th year, the ACAA is supported by CBUS, Engineers Australia, Gallagher, InEight, InfraBuild and Pinsent Masons.
The winner will be announced at a black‑tie dinner at the Hyatt Regency Sydney on August 20 2026, held alongside the Australian Constructors Association’s Foundations and Frontiers Forum.
The ACAA finalists for 2026 are:
- ECU City Campus (Western Australia), by Multiplex
A transformational inner‑city campus delivering Perth’s first comprehensive CBD university. Home to the WA Academy of Performing Arts and one of the world’s most advanced suites of performance venues, the 66,107 square metre vertical campus brings 10,000 staff and students into the heart of the city. Delivered above live transport infrastructure, it anchors the Perth City Deal and redefines the state’s education and cultural landscape.
- Groote Eylandt Wharf Remediation Project (Northern Territory), by McConnell Dowell
A fast‑tracked, cyclone‑recovery effort that stabilised and rebuilt critical export infrastructure after Tropical Cyclone Megan. In just 12 months, the team restored operations through a complex marine program drawing on fleets from Australia, Singapore and the UAE, safeguarding a workforce of 1,000 and the region’s manganese export supply chain.
- Kimberley Marine Support Base (Western Australia), by TAMS Group
An innovative new 250m long floating wharf designed to accommodate large tidal variations and expand capacity at the Port of Broome. The project strengthens Northern Australia’s marine logistics capability and supports future growth across resources, defence and regional industries.
- Metro Tunnel Project (Victoria), by Cross Yarra Partnership & Rail Network Alliance
The biggest overhaul of Melbourne’s rail network in 40 years. Two 9‑kilometre tunnels, five new underground stations and 97 kilometres of upgraded corridor unlock a turn‑up‑and‑go service and double network capacity, reshaping how the city moves for generations.
- New Footscray Hospital (Victoria), by Multiplex
A landmark 504‑bed health precinct and one of Victoria’s largest ever hospital investments. The 192,000 square metre facility expands emergency, mental health, subacute and specialist services, increases capacity for 35,000 additional patients each year, and integrates research, education and community spaces through a new Victoria University partnership hub.
- New Sydney Fish Market (NSW), by Multiplex
A modern, world‑class waterfront destination revitalising Sydney’s seafood industry. The new market delivers upgraded wholesale auction facilities, retail and dining spaces, the Sydney Seafood School, and over 12,000 square metres of public domain, activating the foreshore and strengthening tourism, trade and community access.
- Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) Airside, Civil & Pavement Works and Terminal & Specialty Services (ACP & TSS) (NSW), by Western Sydney Airport Corporation, Bechtel, CPB Contractors, Acciona and Multiplex
Delivered ahead of schedule and within budget, these works established the core aviation infrastructure for Australia’s newest international airport. The project includes a 3.7km runway, advanced airfield systems, a 96,000 square metre terminal and integrated aviation services, setting a new benchmark for safe, sustainable and coordinated mega‑project delivery.