Responding to growth, Deakin University completed a workspace transformation over two stages by consolidating departments into a zoned open-plan space to support collaborative learning while maintaining faculty operations.

Stage 1 included infilling the central core of an existing U-shaped building on Levels 3, 4, and 5, with a total area of 2,907m2. Stage 2 was the fit-out and refurbishment of the new and existing elements of Level 5 with a total combined area of 4,068m2.

Johnstaff was engaged to provide both Project Management and Contract Superintendent services from schematic design, through to completion and defects limitation period.

Johnstaff worked closely with Deakin to obtain all necessary approvals, consult stakeholders, manage consultants, engage and manage an Early Contractor Involvement process that helped establish construction constraints. Johnstaff then actively managed the construction phase activities.

The project involved undertaking construction while maintaining existing functions. Noise, dust, vibration and access were well managed to maintain operations. Other issues we addressed included complications with the infill that required connections on all sides, restricted access, and latent conditions.

The project also involved extensive stakeholder management, communication and change management issues. Effective stakeholder management was key to getting buy-in throughout construction and encouraging people to use the new spaces once they were handed over.