The countdown is on to crown this year’s Australian Construction Achievement Award winner.
By Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association.
Size and complexity often take centre stage in construction. But the Australian Construction Achievement Award (ACAA) is different. It’s not just about the biggest project – it’s about industry transformation. Winning is about setting new benchmarks for how construction should be done. The award highlights companies that prioritise people, sustainability and innovation, showing what the future of construction should look like.
Presented by the Australian Constructors Association and Engineers Australia, the ACAA has been celebrating industry achievements for 28 years. Last year’s winner, the Rookwood Weir Project, stood out not only for its innovative fish lock and the world’s first turtle passage design but also for the strong collaboration within the alliance (Sunwater, GHD, ACCIONA and McCosker Contracting). The project exceeded its training targets and Indigenous employment goals. By embracing sustainable practices and new technology, it set a benchmark for environmental responsibility and innovation.
The ACAA has a rigorous judging process. This year’s panel, chaired by Tanya Cox and including Duncan Gibb, Elizabeth Taylor and Dr Charles Macdonald, follows a three-stage evaluation process. Entries begin with an initial project submission, after which shortlisted finalists advance to the next stage. Finalists then submit detailed reports and host site tours, where judges engage directly with project teams and clients to assess the projects.
Value for money outcomes make up 40 per cent of the judging criteria. Entrants must demonstrate expertise in delivering complex projects while maximising social and economic benefits. Judges assess risk management, time, cost and quality optimisation, and commitment to local suppliers, including social and Indigenous enterprises. Long-term community benefits also play a crucial role.
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Capacity, capability and skills development account for 30 per cent of the assessment. Judges look for projects that lift workforce skills and drive productivity improvements. Entrants promote innovation, adopt digital technologies that reduce whole-of-life asset costs and invest in training initiatives that equip workers with essential skills. Meeting or exceeding targets for female participation, Indigenous employment and social inclusion is also key.
Positive workplace culture makes up the final 30 per cent. Winning projects prioritise worker wellbeing by promoting a safe, inclusive and flexible environment. Judges consider efforts to promote diversity, encourage collaboration across all stakeholders, and implement initiatives that minimise environmental impact and drive sustainability.
The winner of the 2025 ACAA will be announced at a black-tie dinner on 6 August in Brisbane. This event will be held alongside Foundations and Frontiers (FF25), a forum dedicated to tackling the industry’s biggest challenges and opportunities.
Bringing both events together reinforces a shared commitment to shaping the future of construction.
The finalists will showcase the best of Australian construction. When the winner is announced, it won’t be about the biggest or most ambitious project. It will be about celebrating the company leading the way in making construction better for everyone.
Find out more at acaa.net.au