Alfred Health's objectives

Alfred Health required a purpose-built centre to provide specialist, multidisciplinary and comprehensive care for patients with melanoma and other cancers, integrated with leading technologies and research functions to support individual patient needs

Background

The Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre (PFMCC) is a standalone world-class facility for the early detection and prevention of skin cancers including melanoma, as well as advanced clinical research through the innovative national clinical trial network, ‘Trial Hub’. The project was funded by the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments, Monash University and philanthropic donors. The facility features collaborative research facilities, cutting edge imaging and diagnostics for early-stage melanoma, space for clinical trials, administrative infrastructure, carparking and administration workspaces. 

Johnstaff’s role

Johnstaff led the project management through all phases, supporting Alfred Health’s internal Project Director. We provided input to the Feasibility Study and associated Business Case, as well as Assurance Review inputs. Johnstaff established and implemented all project governance and project management systems and undertook a critical review of project risks. The procurement strategy included an early works contract to demolish the existing two-storey block of apartments.


Addressing the issues

Aggressive project timeframes were requested as part of the philanthropic funding and therefore innovative programme and procurement strategies were required. Johnstaff developed a hybrid project delivery model comprising separate demolition, early works and main works contracts, with each to be delivered through a different contract form.

The approach provides significant programme benefits and de-risks the of the site of existing services and latent conditions prior to commencement of the main construction activities. 

map of the project location

Designed and built in Parkville, Victoria

Outcomes

  • Innovative planning and procurement strategies developed to meet project requirements

  • Staged construction methodology de-risked the project and ensured target dates were met

  • Multiple funding sources and funding obligations carefully managed including Commonwealth, State and Philanthropic

  • Collocating clinical care and research within one purpose-designed facility, creating the opportunity for research driven by patient need