Businesses finding solutions to Australia’s most complex design and engineering challenges, together with leaders championing innovation in digital transformation, sustainability and diversity have been applauded at the Consult Australia Awards.

The awards, held at the ICC Sydney on Thursday 14 March 2024, honoured consulting firms operating across Australia’s built and natural environment sectors. Fourteen awards were presented for projects and programs in 2023.

“Australia has close to 60,000 businesses providing highly technical and specialised engineering, design and advisory services. Without these businesses, Australia’s infrastructure and construction projects wouldn’t happen,” says Consult Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Cartledge.

“Innovation is mission critical as we address a host of challenges from skills shortages to the net zero challenge, and our awards applaud those who push boundaries and present new technical and technological solutions. But we also applaud those who find new ways to work collaboratively and in partnership with governments.”

Among the award winners is Stuart Manley, recognised with the Consult Australia President’s Award, who has made an enduring industry impact over a 35-year career. A former Consult Australia co-vice president and board member, Mr Manley was commended for his contribution to the association’s strategy, charter and Code of Ethics.

Dr Michael Vinod, a Senior Geotechnical Engineer with EIC Activities clinched the Future Leader Award for his ground-breaking technical skills, dedication to innovation and integration of specialist radar technology into a diverse range of projects.

Geotron, an emerging structural engineering consultancy, took home the Small Firm of the Year Award for the second consecutive year. Geotron’s intuitive technology platform, Gmetrik, was also awarded in the Planning for a Digital Future category for enabling sustainable and efficient designs, curbing rework and budget overruns. Geotron also won the Small Business Excellence – Client Satisfaction category.

Engineering and environmental professional services firm Tonkin was named Medium Firm of the Year. Tonkin’s team was chosen for its work to construct temporary levees during devastating floods along the Murray River, achieved thanks to a collaborative relationship with governments in two states.

SMEC secured the Large Firm of the Year Award for its impressive work, including the development of a transformative pacemaker lighting solution on Melbourne’s Burnley Tunnel that regulates speed, reshapes road safety, modifies driver behaviour and enhances energy efficiency.

“The Consult Australia Awards honour not just the winners, but the spirit of collaboration that underpins innovation and propels our industry forward,” Mr Cartledge concludes.

Check out the full list of award winners.