April 17 2009
On Friday 17 April, New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees announced Laing O’Rourke as one of the successful Managing Contractor providers for New South Wales’ largest ever school building program.
Laing O’Rourke will be the Managing Contractor for the Riverina and Western New South Wales regions, which covers more than half the state.
The Commonwealth-funded Nation Building Economic Stimulus Package will see the fastest program of capital expenditure ever undertaken in New South Wales.
“Compare this task to what we delivered for the Olympics - it is twice the budget, to be delivered in half the time and with a hundred times as many projects,” Premier Rees said.
“These successful tenderers will deliver the best value for money whilst ensuring we respond to local conditions and local employment opportunities,” Mr Rees said.
As Managing Contractor, Laing O’Rourke will manage a host of projects throughout each region, ranging from constructing new school buildings to refurbishing existing facilities.
Laing O’Rourke’s role will be to manage the process from design to delivery, engaging local sub-contractors and directing the supply of materials – ensuring not only improved educational facilities but providing a direct economic boost to the regions involved.
Laing O’Rourke’s experience in managing large, complex projects, working in regional and remote areas, and proven track record of upskilling and training, were instrumental in being awarded the program of works.
General Manager (Building NSW) Scott Egelton said Laing O’Rourke’s win would see the company working with country communities in virtually every town west of the Great Divide.
“We’ll work across Western NSW and the Riverina, engaging local schools, builders, suppliers and other service providers to maximise the effectiveness of this massive program,” Mr Egelton said.
“Laing O’Rourke is experienced in the unique demands of delivering infrastructure to regional and remote areas. We’re pleased to be able to assist government in delivering its objectives through this unique capital works package.
“NSW and Federal authorities have engaged closely with the industry and worked swiftly to get these projects up and running in the shortest possible time,” he said.
