Multiplex takes out ACAA for RMIT

"Winning this award is testimony to Multiplex's experience and expertise in the education sector. We have been an active player delivering education projects across Australia and we are very excited about the role we can play in shaping projects that not only facilitate quality teaching but also enhance student experiences," said Mr Graham Milford-Cottam, Regional Managing Director of Victoria at Multiplex.

Located on the corner of Swanston and A'Beckett Street in Melbourne's CBD, the 11 storey Swanston Academic Building spans 34,350 square metres and incorporates 87 teaching spaces, 10 specialist learning spaces, 12 lecture theatres that have a capacity for up to 360 students and a 180 seat cinema. It is now occupied by more than 850 academic and administration staff and has the capacity to cater to more than 6,000 students.

The Swanston Academic Building is the largest purpose-built facility in the new generation of education buildings in Australia with a $6 million audio-visual system that is the largest and most advanced in the country.

Designed by Lyons Architects, the Swanston Academic Building is a community hub for students as well as a formal learning space. Break out areas for studying and socialising have been designed as vibrant environments that encourage engagement between students. Some of these spaces are indoor/outdoor areas, resistant from weather, and fitted with materials that encapsulate the outdoor sentiment including astroturf in various colours, wooden decking and paved floors as well as steel tree sculptures, street art and student art.

Construction of the building commenced in September, 2010 and was completed in July 2012 and it has been awarded a 5 Star Green Star - Education Design v1 Certified Rating.