Delivery Methods
Abigroup has experience in delivering projects in a whole range of different ways.
We are mindful that there is no such thing as a “best model” for all projects and will work with our clients in the engineering and building areas, as well as specialised areas, to ensure the best fit – with the best outcomes for all stakeholders.
While traditional methods of contracting – including Design and Construct (D&C) and construct only – have historically reigned supreme in Australian infrastructure delivery, new delivery methods such as Alliances, Early Contractor Involvement and Managing Contractor provide a greater range of flexibility to ensure the perfect fit on a project-by-project basis.
The industry trend in recent years is the increased use of collaborative based contracts – and Abigroup is leading the way. Under these arrangements, the full expertise of the client and the design and construction teams are brought together very early, enabling full collaboration on project goals, issues, risk mitigation and resourcing.
Such an approach is aimed at delivering a piece of public infrastructure or service quickly, efficiently, with shared risk and shared reward – to the benefit of all involved.
Our people and the Abigroup culture and values are particularly suited to the Alliance Contracting delivery model which focuses on the collaborative approach of bringing key personnel together from the client, designer and contractor at the earliest time of the project’s initiation.
Abigroup is committed to the unique principles that underpin the success of Alliances by prioritising the establishment of the best team above all else.
Only after the team is established do negotiations begin about costs, construction methods and other details.
Following several successful Alliances in Queensland, the model was adopted in other states. Late in 2006, in a NSW first, the RTA awarded two Alliance contracts for extensive works on the Hume Highway in Southern NSW, one of which was awarded to the Abigroup-SKM collaboration.
While a new approach in NSW, Abigroup’s extensive Alliance experience in other states stood it in good stead against the tough competition for the contract, worth in the order of $400 million.
Abigroup has since embarked upon several other Alliances across the country and in a diverse range of disciplines. Notable Abigroup Alliances currently include the Hunter Water Alliance in New South Wales, Monash Alliance in Victoria and the large and challenging Bulk Water Alliance in the ACT.
Abigroup is also delivering the Adelaide desalination plant as part of the AdelaideAqua consortium of which it is a JV construction partner.