Strategic partnership promotes adoption of new technology in the construction sector

Laing O’Rourke has formed a strategic partnership with Australia’s peak body for the robotics sector, Robotics Australia Group.

The partnership will explore how current and emerging robotic technologies can help address core challenges facing the construction sector, including productivity, labour shortages and safety.

Georgina North, Head of Technology and Innovation at Laing O’Rourke, said the partnership will help identify opportunities for the integration of robotics-related technologies into the business, as a catalyst for adoption by the wider construction sector.

“Laing O’Rourke’s mission is to be the recognised leader for innovation and excellence in the construction sector. We want to be at the forefront of designing, testing and integrating robotics and adjacent technologies into our projects,” said Georgina.

Laing O’Rourke initially supported Robotics Australia Group through the development of both the 2018 and 2022 Robotics Roadmaps for Australia. This new partnership is an extension of that commitment.

Robotics Australia Group Chair, Dr Sue Keay, explained the critical importance of this partnership to the growing robotics sector.

“Robotics Australia Group welcomes the opportunity to extend our long-standing relationship with Laing O’Rourke through this new partnership,” Dr Keay said.

“Australian robotics is at the precipice of exponential growth, in line with global trends in robotics. It is imperative that leading global corporations like Laing O’Rourke play an active role in testing and scaling robotics and related technologies.

“We have a range of activities and events planned to help connect emerging technology companies with established businesses.

“This partnership demonstrates Laing O’Rourke’s commitment to being a technology leader within their sector. Ultimately, collaboration is the key to unlocking the sector’s potential,” said Dr Keay.

As the peak body for robotics in Australia, Robotics Australia Group was established to facilitate the growth of a sustainable and internationally competitive national robotics industry.

Representing the interests of companies developing new technology, Robotics Australia Group is ideally positioned to support the implementation of Laing O’Rourke’s vision to lead the adoption of innovative technology solutions across the construction sector.

About Laing O’Rourke

Laing O’Rourke is a $6 billion international operation with 50 years of involvement in Australian construction and infrastructure including more than a decade under the Laing O’Rourke banner.

We combine our expertise with purposeful technology, deploying digital engineering and construction management solutions, leveraging technology such as robotics and computer vision, AI and IoT to produce powerful results.

By leveraging the right technology, we know we can spark positive change for our clients, their projects and the wider industry. That's why our 2025 mission is to be the construction sector's recognised leader for innovation and excellence.

About Robotics Australia Group

Robotics Australia Group (RAG) aims to facilitate the growth of a sustainable and internationally competitive national robotics industry through a focussed, collaborative approach between industry; research; government; start-ups; investment and education.

As the national peak body, RAG is committed to creating new export opportunities for Australian-developed technologies; driving new employment opportunities; creating high-value global skills and capabilities; encouraging onshore investment and talent retention; and promoting competitive technological sovereign capability.

RAG also recognises the opportunity to capitalise on Australia’s collective knowledge and skills to support the strength and competitiveness of all of our national industries including construction, mining, energy, agriculture, defence, manufacturing and avionics.