The $940 million redevelopment of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) is supporting Aboriginal participation in construction, with almost $3 million spent in the first year of main works on Aboriginal contractors and sub-contractors.
The RPA hospital redevelopment is part of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program which aims to develop skills, capability, and capacity in the construction industry and increase diversity on building sites, including the representation of Aboriginal people.
Under the Program, the main works contractor CPB Contractors is on track to achieve its commitment to spend 5.5% of the contract value on subcontracted Aboriginal businesses, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, and building the capability of Aboriginal staff and businesses involved in the project through education and training.
More than 42 people identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, have worked on site for the RPA Hospital Redevelopment, with numbers continuing to grow as the main works construction ramps up.
Biripi man Brendan Syron is working on the redevelopment as a third-year electrical apprentice with Stowe. He’s been involved since the early stages of the main works and will be involved with the circuiting of the new 15 storey building. Mr Syron is passionate about the industry and strives to be a role model for young people looking to create careers in the construction and engineering sectors.
In addition to providing opportunities for Aboriginal business and employment, the redevelopment is supporting initiatives aimed at preserving and celebrating Aboriginal culture. These include networking events, ceremonies on site, and honouring and incorporating Aboriginal heritage through consultation in design.
For more information visit https://www.rparedevelopment.health.nsw.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“The NSW Government is committed to providing opportunities for Aboriginal businesses to gain exposure to large-scale infrastructure projects.
“The $940 million RPA Hospital Redevelopment, part of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program, is a great example of fostering an environment which continues to train and upskill companies to support a broad range of work.
“Working closely with Aboriginal businesses not only enhances the quality and cultural safety of the construction, it also fosters meaningful economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, David Harris:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to closing the gap in employment for Aboriginal people and their businesses and the RPA Hospital Redevelopment is a great example of this.
“The success of Aboriginal participation in the RPA Hospital Redevelopment highlights the vital role of inclusion and the positive impact of engaging diverse groups in the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
“It is wonderful to see RPA redevelopment take part in the Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program to help expand the representation of Aboriginal people in the construction and engineering sectors.”
Quotes attributable to Health Infrastructure Executive Director, Northern Region, Leisa Rathborne:
“Health Infrastructure is a strong advocate for Aboriginal participation and inclusion in construction, proudly supporting our contractors to work with a range of Aboriginal businesses.
“Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is integral to our values and we’re dedicated to driving progress in these areas.”
Quotes attributable to CPB Contractors Graduate and cultural champion, Lawson Tinmouth
“Including Aboriginal people and businesses in large projects like this one is a crucial step towards reconciliation and economic empowerment.
“The diverse perspectives and skills brought by Aboriginal workers have been invaluable to the RPA Redevelopment project and we recognise the influence and impact these businesses have on employment, engagement, building capacity, and supporting progress and productivity in their own communities.”
Quotes attributable to Biripi man Brendan Syron, Third-year Electrical Engineer, Stowe:
“I want to be the best role model I can be for others and I want to show that with the right skills and dedication, anyone can excel, no matter their background.”
“Being part of this redevelopment means a lot to me personally. It’s about contributing to something that will benefit the entire community, while also paving the way for more Aboriginal people to enter the industry.”
“The construction industry is very inclusive and multicultural, with all of us working together to reach the best project outcome. I would love to see more programs that offer trade opportunities for Aboriginal youth at school to help build confidence in our mob to pursue their passions.”