Kapitol Makes Infrastructure Debut with Motorway Project

Kapitol Group has secured its first major infrastructure contract—the delivery of the Motorway Control Centre for Victoria’s North East Link project. The Melbourne-based construction company will leverage its expertise in defence and data centre projects to the critical infrastructure development tha that is part of the state’s Big Build projects. The two-storey facility in Balwyn North ( pictured top ) will manage traffic, safety and environmental systems for the twin tunnels between Watsonia and Bulleen. The centre will enable real-time monitoring, emergency co-ordination and operational control across one of Victoria’s most complex transport networks. Kapitol co-founder Andrew Deveson told The Urban Developer the company’s confidence in winning the contract stemmed from its experience in complex environments. “From day one, we’ve built our capability in some of the most complex, high-compliance environments in the country, including hyperscale data centres and defence facilities,” Deveson said. “These projects require us to co-ordinate multiple operational systems, meet strict regulatory and safety benchmarks, and navigate multi-stakeholder delivery. “The same capabilities underpin complex transport infrastructure, positioning us to meet the demands of projects at this scale.” Construction is due to begin later this year using Kapitol’s design and construct methodology, integrating in-house design, digital co-ordination and delivery planning. The facility will include a motorway control room, three dedicated server rooms, an emergency response suite, tunnel access infrastructure and administrative offices. Deveson said the company would adapt its proven prefabrication methods for the project. ▲ A rendering of a section of the North East Link’s twin tunnels between Watsonia and Bulleen in Victoria. “We’re applying the same system-led approach used on data centres to infrastructure projects, manufacturing major components off-site for tighter quality control, less rework and faster installation,” he said. “In transport infrastructure, where access and installation can be more complex, we adjust sizing and modularisation to ensure prefabricated elements can be transported and installed safely.” The infrastructure move represents strategic expansion rather than opportunistic pursuit. “We see this as a strategic progression of the business, not a one-off,” Deveson said. “Infrastructure, particularly projects that integrate advanced control systems and sustainability benchmarks, aligns closely with our capabilities.” Deveson identified potential for collaboration with property developers as mixed-use projects increasingly integrate complex systems. “Mixed-use precincts, high-tech commercial buildings, and large-scale residential projects are increasingly integrating data, energy, and control systems from day one,” he said. “This can include private data hubs, advanced building management systems, EV charging networks and precinct-wide energy infrastructure. “As this trend continues, it’s likely we’ll see more collaboration between builders with complex infrastructure expertise and property developers.” The project will target a 5-Star Green Star rating, incorporating 4000 linear metres of sustainably sourced timber in its structure. ▲ The North East Link tunnels stretch 6.5km between Watsonia and Bulleen. This aligns with Victoria’s sustainability benchmarks for public infrastructure developments. Kapitol’s infrastructure entry follows significant growth across multiple sectors. The company recently secured a $170-million contract for Hanwha Defence Australia’s Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence and continues expanding its data centre portfolio, including partnerships with NextDC . Founded in 2018, Kapitol currently maintains a $1.7-billion workbook with a pipeline exceeding $4 billion. Data centre projects represent approximately 60 per cent of current work, with the company delivering over $1.2 billion and 185 megawatts in capacity to date. The appointment comes as Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced the final contracts for the North East Link’s Eastern Freeway transformation. The Momentum consortium, comprising John Holland, Seymour Whyte, Jacobs and Mott Macdonald, is to upgrade the freeway between Hoddle Street and Burke Road. The Synergy consortium, featuring CPB Contractors, BMD Constructions and Arup, will handle upgrades between Tram and Springvale roads. The broader North East Link program is expected to remove 15,000 trucks from roads daily and reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes when completed in 2028. The Eastern Freeway upgrades will add more than 45km of new lanes and deliver Melbourne’s first dedicated busway, which will stretch fro 11km from Doncaster toward the city.

Kapitol Makes Infrastructure Debut with Motorway Project

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