Multiplex tops out stage two of Perth data centre with AUD $110m boost

Multiplex has reached the highest point in the construction of Stage Two at NEXTDC's P1 data centre in Perth, representing a further investment of AUD $110 million into Western Australia's digital infrastructure.

Project milestone

Stage Two includes the installation of what is claimed to be the largest satellite antenna array in Western Australia, enhancing the site's data capability. The development at 4 Millrose Drive in Malaga, north of the Perth CBD, marks the fifth data centre Multiplex has built for NEXTDC since the companies began working together seven years ago.

The second stage will double the facility's IT capacity. Multiplex must coordinate construction around an operational building delivered during Stage One, adding to project complexity. The company will now move to fit-out plantrooms, offices, and a new data hall within the five-storey structure. Two further data halls are scheduled for future fit-out work, alongside upgrades to central plant and infrastructure services.

Technical complexity

Multiplex reports that 95 people are working on the construction each day, with over 154,000 labour hours logged so far. The company emphasises the technical demands of the project, particularly as works are conducted adjacent to live operations.

"We are proud to reach this exciting milestone and help NEXTDC deliver a critical expansion of Australia's critical digital infrastructure. Multiplex has proven credentials in collaborating with NEXTDC on its highly specialised data centre projects. We have worked on five data centres around Australia over the last seven years - representing over 500MW of total IT capacity," said Chris Palandri, Regional Managing Director - Western Australia, Multiplex.

"The technical nature of this project has required meticulous construction. It reflects our experience delivering intricate projects in live, sensitive environments and our ability to mobilise our specialist workforce," said Palandri.

Sustainability practices

Multiplex is incorporating environmentally focused methods in delivering the new data centre stage. An electric crane is being utilised onsite to reduce emissions. The use of green concrete reportedly achieves a 65% reduction in embodied carbon compared with standard cement mixes.

Prefabricated elements such as risers, header pipework, and reinforcement cages are being used to increase efficiency and minimise waste. The company is also switching to local aluminium and precast panels, moving away from imported materials. The centre is designed to achieve at least a 5-Star WELS water efficiency rating.

Social inclusion

Efforts to support social inclusion have been made through the engagement of Rigsafe, a 100% Indigenous-owned company, as the project's rigging partner. Multiplex is also working to provide career advancement by training local trainees and expanding opportunities for apprentices within contracted teams.

The practical completion of Stage Two is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026.