Critical environment delivery at national scale, in live and secure facilities

SHAPE was engaged by NBN Co, via project manager Area3, to deliver a national programme of critical network facilities across multiple states. Each facility was built to data centre specification within existing warehouse environments, requiring a technically demanding services-led fitout with zero tolerance for disruption to the live national broadband network.

The facilities were configured to Tier 3 standard, with full 2N redundant power feeds, raised access flooring, cable reticulation, and precision cooling with free cooling capability. SHAPE self-delivered a significant electrical scope across the programme, including:

• 48V DC power supply systems and switchboard extensions to accommodate additional generator load
• Underground conduit and large-scale vertical cable tray installations
• Generator infrastructure upgrades including concrete plinths, diesel fuel line systems with integrated leak detection, and generator mains cabling
• VESDA smoke detection and NOVEC 1230 gaseous fire suppression to data centre grade throughout

All works were delivered under strict security access protocols, with detailed methodologies reviewed and approved before any activity carrying risk to the live network.

SHAPE appointed a dedicated National Project Manager to maintain a consistent technical standard across all states. NBN Co’s confidence in our delivery following the initial engagement led to exclusive negotiations for subsequent works, a relationship that continued across several years and multiple sites.