Iconic Canberra Construction Company Collapses, Leaving Staff in Limbo

An esteemed Canberra-based construction firm, Project Coordination, renowned for its iconic structures in the capital, has succumbed to financial woes, plunging its dedicated workforce into uncertainty.

Directors Paul Murphy and Gavin Murphy of Project Coordination made the heartbreaking decision to enlist RSM Australia as administrators, as the company grappled with financial constraints despite a robust project portfolio spanning across Canberra and New South Wales.

RSM Australia identified over 200 creditors owed in excess of $20 million by Project Coordination, impacting 67 staff members and leaving 14 projects hanging in the balance.

The disheartened directors, who delivered the news to staff at offices in Canberra and Wollongong, expressed deep sorrow over the turn of events after 50 years of successful operations.

Key projects handled by Project Coordination included the National Arboretum Visitor Centre, CSIRO Discovery Centre, and major works at the Canberra Hospital, showcasing the company’s significant contributions to Canberra’s architectural landscape.

Although the Murphys injected personal funds to sustain operations, they ultimately faced insurmountable challenges due to escalating costs and fixed-price contracts.

With 14 projects now on hold, including those at early stages and nearing completion, RSM is working to ensure project continuity and manage creditor communication on behalf of Project Coordination.

This collapse adds Project Coordination to the list of defunct Canberra construction firms, alongside others like Rork Projects, PBS Group, and Cubitt’s Granny Flats and Home Extensions, emblematic of the industry’s ongoing struggles.