SSCT Mechanical Upgrades 2026

⁠⁠⁠The mechanical plant at the SSC’s venues is critical infrastructure and includes chillers, boilers, hot water services, air handling units and control systems. The condition of the plant varies across all venues based on the age of the plant and the maintenance completed through the life of the plant.

This project addresses works at the following sites:

• Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre (MSAC)
•  Lakeside Stadium (Lakeside); and
•  State Basketball Centre (Knox).

Detailed audits have been completed to confirm the condition of the SSCs plant assets and required upgrades documented. Refer to the Drawings & Site Specifications for further details and the full project Scope of Works.

The primary objective of this Project is to replace critical mechanical plant assets across SSC’s venues in a manner that maintains continuous operation of the facilities. Given the essential nature of these venues for sporting, community, and event use, works must be carefully planned and executed to minimise disruption to day-to-day activities and scheduled events.

Key objectives include:

•  Delivering the replacement of end-of-life and obsolete mechanical assets (including chillers, boilers, hot water systems, air handling units and controls) to improve overall system reliability and performance.
•  Ensuring all works are staged and coordinated to maintain operational continuity, with particular consideration given to peak usage periods, major events, and seasonal demands.
•  Minimising downtime and service interruptions through proactive planning, temporary systems (where required), and close coordination with venue operations teams.
•  Improving energy efficiency, sustainability outcomes, and lifecycle performance of the mechanical systems.
•  Reducing operational and maintenance risks associated with ageing infrastructure, including the likelihood of unplanned failures.
•  Leveraging existing audit data and asset management strategies to prioritise works and optimise investment across the portfolio.
•  Enhancing user comfort and environmental conditions for athletes, staff, and patrons across all venues.

Overall, the Project aims to balance the timely renewal of critical infrastructure with the need to maintain safe, functional, and high-performing sporting venues throughout the delivery period.