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CIMIC'S UGL selected by Vocus to develop major digital infrastructure initiative

CIMIC Group

UGL, a member of the CIMIC Group, has been selected by Vocus – a leading Australian digital infrastructure provider – as its development partner for the initial phase of the Australian Digital Infrastructure Platform, a major national fibre initiative designed to strengthen Australia's digital infrastructure and support future demand for AI, cloud and data centre connectivity.

UGL will deliver an early works program to support development of the project's first proposed route between Sydney and Melbourne. The initial program includes survey, design, engineering, field validation, stakeholder engagement, project management and cost modelling activities required to prepare the project for construction. 

The Australian Digital Infrastructure Platform is Vocus’ long-term initiative to develop new high-capacity fibre subsea, intercapital and metro fibre infrastructure across Australia and the APAC region, supporting growing demand from AI infrastructure, hyperscale and data centres, cloud platforms and digital services.

CIMIC Group Chief Executive Officer Jason Spears said: 

“Reliable, high-capacity digital infrastructure is increasingly critical to Australia's economic growth and productivity. CIMIC Group is pleased to support Vocus in developing this nationally significant project, which will strengthen connectivity between major population centres and support the growth of emerging technologies, including hyperscale data centres, artificial intelligence and cloud computing."

UGL Managing Director Sam Goldsmith said: 

“UGL has a long history of delivering complex infrastructure that underpins Australia's growth and prosperity. This partnership expands UGL's role in Australia's digital future. By supporting the development of next-generation fibre infrastructure, we are helping create the connectivity backbone required to support growing demand from data centres, cloud services and AI-enabled technologies."

Vocus Chief Technology Officer Nikos Katinakis said: 

“ADIP is about building the digital infrastructure Australia needs to support the next wave of AI growth and to position itself as a leading AI hub for Southeast Asia. We collaborate with partners to anticipate demand, giving AI, cloud and data centre partners the infrastructure they need to deploy their technology at scale across Australia and the region. We are pleased to partner with UGL to help deliver this nationally significant infrastructure.”

The agreement further strengthens UGL's relationship with leading infrastructure owners and operators and positions the company to support the delivery of future stages of the Australian Digital Infrastructure Platform as it expands across Australia. 

The early works program is expected to start in August 2026.

About us:

CIMIC Group is an engineering-led services, construction and natural resources leader with a history dating back to 1899. Powered by 39,000 people, and pioneering technology and engineering, we deliver high-value and sustainable solutions across the lifecycle of assets, infrastructure and resources projects in around 20 countries. CIMIC Group comprises our engineering and construction businesses CPB Contractors and Leighton Asia, our integrated solutions providers UGL and Sedgman, our natural resources company Thiess, and our development and investment arm Pacific Partnerships – all supported by our in-house engineering consultancy EIC Activities. Our mission is to generate sustainable returns by delivering innovative and competitive solutions for clients and safe, fulfilling careers for our people. We strive to be known for our principles of Integrity, Accountability, Innovation and Delivery, underpinned by Safety.

Contact details:

Ms Fiona Tyndall, Communications T+61 429 370 414