As lead designer in the Rail Infrastructure Alliance alongside equal construction partners CPB Contractors and John Holland, AECOM will provide the full range of design services for all elements of the project, including tunnel entrances, brownfield rail network enhancements and station improvements.

AECOM expects to mobilise over 150 full-time positions on the project, while some 500 of the infrastructure company’s 3500-strong Australia New Zealand team will, at some point, contribute to the project’s successful delivery over the duration of the contract.

Leveraging AECOM’s global expertise in tunnel portal design, specialists from AECOM’s Hong Kong team have been integral to securing AECOM’s role on the project.

Local rail capability and brownfield rail expertise were also key differentiators in AECOM’s offer.

AECOM Chief Executive – Australia New Zealand, Todd Battley, said the Metro Tunnel was a transformational infrastructure project that prioritised the mobility of Victorians.

“With Melbourne leading Australia’s cities in terms of population growth, the Metro Tunnel Project is critical to keeping the city moving, and Victoria growing,” he said.

“We’re proud to continue our work on infrastructure projects that build cities, and connect communities.

“The Victorian Government has demonstrated great vision to deliver the Metro Tunnel – Victoria’s largest ever public transport project – and we can’t wait to get started with our partners.”

Construction is expected to commence in late 2018 and be completed in 2025.