Work on Geelong’s tallest building has officially begun.
Demolition of existing buildings on the site began this week to make way for the $120 million, 14-storey WorkSafe head office.
The new building at 1 Malop Street, Geelong, is due for completion in 2018.
Quintessential Equity is developing the WorkSafe office in conjunction with construction company Built.
WorkSafe Chief Executive Clare Amies said the new headquarters for 700 staff would transform Geelong’s skyline.
Ms Amies said the beginning of work at the site was both a significant step in the development and an exciting moment for WorkSafe.
“Work will start on demolishing empty buildings at the rear of the site and internal structural works to support and protect the facade of the historic Dalgety and Co building,” she said.
“This is an important milestone for WorkSafe because it means we are another step closer to becoming part of the fabric of Geelong.
“Each WorkSafe employee plays an important role in making a real difference to the lives of people in Victoria and we are looking forward to bringing this commitment and passion to Geelong.”
More than 150 WorkSafe employees will move to Geelong in December to work out of the nearby TAC head office at 60 Brougham Street, with the remainder of staff to make the move in 2018 upon completion of the new building.
Piling and other foundation works were expected to begin later this month.
Victorian Finance Minister Robin Scott said the start of work meant the project was a step closer to breathing more life into Geelong.
The office would bring hundreds of new jobs to help transforming the CBD, Mr Scott said.
“The new headquarters will be a powerful symbol of renewal and help make sure we continue to grow Geelong into a national hub of injury prevention.”
Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the start of work on the WorkSafe site was an important milestone for Geelong.
“Avalon’s future is safe, the WorkSafe headquarters is coming – we’re putting planes and cranes in the sky for Geelong.”
