Work has officially begun at the University of Canberra’s NATSEM International Microsimulation Centre with the first sod turned by Senator the Hon Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.
In a ceremony also attended by ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope, Senator Carr congratulated NATSEM and the University of Canberra for putting together a compelling case for this landmark project.
Senator the Hon Kim Carr turns the first sod
under the watchful eye of Jon Stanhope and
UC Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker
“The Microsimulation Centre will be a state-of-the-art building, featuring a 200-seat auditorium, offices, teaching and seminar rooms, and the latest audiovisual and computer equipment,” Senator Carr said.
To be built at a cost of $11M, the centre will also include accommodation for up to four visiting fellows at any given time in four - 60m2 self-contained studio apartments.
Manteena’s Project Manager, Kevin Tanchevski said the construction presents many challenges.
“Some of the existing services will be relocated underground, in addition to working in, around and under other existing live services,” Kevin said.
“Zincalume cladding, which is being sourced from Europe, covers a majority of the façade and will also require particular attention to successfully install however the end result should be stunning.”
The building is located on the corner of the Innovations precinct and will be a focal point and prominent feature of the area.
High quality internal finishes such as stone flooring, ceiling arrangements and state of the art audio visual will no doubt ensure the facility is truly word-class.
Construction is expected to be complete by mid-2010.
