The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) has published gender pay gap data for over 5000 Australian companies for the first time. Richard Crookes Constructions (RCC) supports the publication of this information and is looking forward to working with WGEA and the construction industry to reduce the median pay gap between women and men employed in the Australian building sector.

As of the 31^st March 2023, RCC has a median gender pay gap of 27.3%. It’s important to note that the gender pay gap is the difference in average earnings between women and men in the workforce. It is not to be confused with women and men being paid the same for the same or comparable job.

Whilst we’re proud of the progress we’ve made in this space to date and how this is reflected in terms of our industry group positioning, we acknowledge we have a long way to go in terms of reducing the gap and creating more inclusive and equitable industry for all.

RCC is pleased to share our Gender Equity Statement which outlines our gender pay gap information, the drivers behind it and what we are doing in order to address systemic gender imbalances within our industry.

RCC Gender Equity Statement 2024

Recognising the collaborative effort of our talented design and delivery partners.

The Art Gallery of NSW‘s Sydney Modern building has won the Australian Steel Institute (ASI) Large Projects Award.

Collaborating with our extended design and delivery partners, we leveraged market-leading 4D modelling technology which aided in the early detection of construction methodology complexities, particularly in relation to structural steel. This technology also allowed the project team to digitally rehearse, and scenario test programme changes to improve and optimise the project’s delivery.

Given the structure’s complexity and programme requirements, early procurement, planning and precise execution of 1,400 tonnes of structural steel was critical to the building’s success.

The high-profile project achieved a 6 Star Green Star Design & As Built v1.1 certified rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. This speaks to the quality of the design and delivery of the cultural landmark in the Domain parklands overlooking Sydney Harbour. The Art Gallery is the first public art museum in Australia to achieve this world-leadership design rating.

The structural design played a critical role in reducing embodied carbon relative to a standard building. This was achieved through:

Reuse and repurposing of existing structures

• The art museum’s design transforms a decommissioned World War II fuel tank into a unique gallery space. The Art Gallery’s intent was to leave this space as raw as possible.
• RCC ensured all unique finishes were protected and retained while constructing several levels of new art pavilion structures on top of the tank.

Smart structural design initiatives

• Lightweight concrete was used in the composite steel and concrete floor and roof structures supported by both the former fuel tanks and a land bridge.
• Higher grade steel (grade 400MPa) was utilised.
• Digital design processes were optimised to represent the geometry and loading efficiently and accurately in analysis and design.
• The entire building structure was designed to be durable and robust, through the adoption of a 100-year design life.

Advanced structural analysis

• Due to the highly complex nature of much of the structural steel installation, multiple planning sessions were held for each steel-framed building zone, to develop robust and thorough erection sequencing documents and plans.

Celebrating career milestones.  

Congratulations to Ghazaleh Norgard on her recent promotion to Deputy Chief Financial Officer. 

In a testament to perseverance, dedication and problem-solving, Ghazaleh has navigated her way through various roles to craft a remarkable career path that exemplifies excellence in delivery.  

Joining RCC as Financial Controller in 2019, she was tasked with developing the in-house finance function – improving efficiencies and establishing strong governance and processes. Since then, she has established the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee and built a high-performing and collaborative team who service the entire organisation. Her expertise will now play a pivotal role in driving our strategic direction. 

“My goal as a leader is to deliver on-time, every time while fostering a kind and cohesive team environment. It’s important to know how and when to push each team member to be their best.”  

In 2024, she intends to focus on leading her team in the face of an evolving industry landscape. “We work as a collaborative team – a diverse group working in harmony. I want to keep the team engaged to continue to deliver and service the business, while growing and developing in their own careers. I see that as success – being the leader you want to see.” 

Congratulations Ghazaleh – the respect, kindness and expertise you bring to our team does not go unnoticed. We’re delighted to celebrate this milestone with you.  

Celebrating the commencement of RCC’s 75th health project in NSW. 

Works are officially underway at Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building – a new state-of-the-art facility that will put south western Sydney at the forefront of medical research. 

NSW Premier Chris Minns, Health Minister Ryan Park, Minister for Medical Research and Aboriginal Affairs, David Harris, Member for Campbelltown, Greg Warren and special guests joined Grant D’Arcy, General Manager – Sydney and Major Projects to break ground.

Once completed, researchers and clinicians will have access to the latest research technologies, laboratories and collaboration spaces. This expertise will enhance community access to clinical trials, serve local health needs and lead research of national significance and global impact. 

“This facility will create fantastic opportunities to develop new treatments, therapies and look for innovative methods for treating patients in our healthcare system.” Mr Park said. 

Since 1976, RCC has delivered 74 health projects across NSW. Our team of delivery experts will lead the design, construction and integrated fit-out of this vital research and health infrastructure. Early planning works will maintain the seamless operations of neighbouring Campbelltown Hospital and Emergency Department and Macarthur Clinical School.

We look forward to partnering with Western Sydney University, South Western Sydney Local Health District, the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research and UNSW to deliver infrastructure that will serve local Australian communities and beyond.  

Image credit: Sally Tsoutas, Western Sydney University

Join one of the largest Cadet programs in Australia. 

Applications are now open for the Richard Crookes Constructions Merit Scholarship for Women, closing 18 March 2024.  

Join a community of students who’ve kick-started their careers in one of Australia’s largest cadet programs – the RCC Cadet Program. Over a two-year structured program, work with industry leaders and gain industry experience that complements your university commitments and accelerates your career.  

Carve out your own path to success by working across an array of project sectors and core business specialties tailored to your interests. 

Overview 

The Richard Crookes Constructions Merit Scholarship for Women has been established to recognise the academic excellence of female students in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT) and/or the Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building (DAB). 

We’re committed to education, talent development and fostering diversity in our workforce. This commitment extends to advancing the industry and shaping the future through education and training. This scholarship enables us to bolster and develop the pipeline of future female industry leaders.  

Want to find out more? 

You can learn about eligibility requirements, conditions of the Award and application forms here.  

We’re shifting the dial for the next generation.

Today, we pause to reflect on the 418 projects our team has delivered across the private, public and tertiary sectors since 1976. 

This future-focused education infrastructure has helped nurture and shape bright young minds across Australia – some of whom have gone on to pursue rewarding careers in STEM.  

We’re committed to building a better industry, however we know that meaningful change is incremental. Through the continued delivery of critical social infrastructure and our Cadet Program, we’re shifting the dial to create a safe and inclusive environment for the next generation. 

RCC’s Cadet Program  

Students can experience everything construction has to offer in a 2-year structured program. Generally, students will join us in their 2nd or 3rd year, gaining valuable industry experience that complements University commitments and accelerates their careers.  

Discover some of RCC’s completed Education projects  

• Monte Scientia 
• UTS Central 
• Alexandria Park Community School 
• St Catherine’s School Sydney 
• Cranbrook School Hordern Oval 

Read more about how we’re shaping the future of education infrastructure here. 

Recognising, and accelerating, high-performing talent.  

Congratulations to Jennifer Tyler, who heads up our in-house legal team, on her recent promotion to General Counsel.  

Jennifer joined RCC as Head of Legal three years ago, tasked with establishing a greenfield in-house legal function. Since then, she has built an extremely capable legal team who assist with the provision of in-house legal services.  She will continue to focus on the development of the in-house legal function, as well as legal operations and corporate governance in her new role.   

With more than 20 years’ experience, Jennifer has successfully advised on a broad range of transactions, disputes and governance issues. Jennifer initially worked in private practice before moving in-house where she has worked in both listed and privately-owned companies. When reflecting on the importance of this varied experience, Jennifer shared, “I’ve been lucky to work alongside highly experienced lawyers with incredibly varied skill sets…with the benefit of this experience, I know the value that a capable and commercially minded in-house legal team can provide.” 

Jennifer has a keen interest in corporate governance, regulatory compliance and L&D. In 2024 she intends to focus on ensuring that RCC understands, and is compliant with, the unprecedented number of regulatory changes impacting the construction industry.  

“Our industry is undergoing a period of rapid and complex legislative change. To successfully deliver our projects, it’s critical that the business is aware of, understands, and complies with, these changes,” she said.  

To close potential knowledge gaps, Jennifer has recently initiated RCC’s company-wide Legal Seminar Series, which offers our people monthly training sessions on a broad range of topics with external subject matter experts. This program will encourage staff to develop and refine their understanding of key legal and regulatory issues, regardless of their role in the organisation. 

Outside of work, Jennifer is looking forward to spending more time with her family. “RCC offers significant flexibility to its staff and the business genuinely encourages and supports its people to incorporate flexibility into their working lives – as a parent, this is really important to me. ”  

Congratulations Jennifer – you are such an important part of our team, and we’re delighted to celebrate this promotion with you.