Winner 2025

Supreme Award for Structural Engineering Excellence

Award for
exceptional ingenuity and technical excellence delivered in a live, high-risk environment through engineering leadership. 

Project description

This major addition to Sydney’s underground metro system integrates a new station and pedestrian tunnels beneath Australia’s busiest rail terminal. The structural design shaped the overall outcome, improving accessibility, reducing embodied carbon, and enhancing sightlines, safety, and wayfinding. A top-down construction method and reimagining of the reference design show how structural engineers can lead high-impact infrastructure from below ground and upwards.

Judge’s comments

A complex and ambitious project that exemplifies thoughtful structural planning and clear technical leadership. The engineers refined and improved the reference design, introducing a clever top-down sequence to meet demanding programme constraints. With reusability and demountability carefully considered, the structure demonstrates how intelligent problem-solving can shape construction and achieve long-term value.

Project overview

Structural Designer

  • Aurecon and GHD Joint Venture (AGJV)

Client Name

  • Laing O'Rourke

Location

  • Sydney, Australia

Architect

  • Woods Bagot, John McAslan + Partners

Principal Contractor

  • Laing O'Rourke

Key Contractors

  • All engineering services: AGJV

    Façade design: Taylor Thomson Whitting Engineers (TTW)

Year Submitted

  • 2025

Submitted By

  • AGJV

Key attributes

  • Process