Location:
Melbourne, Victoria
Contract:
Construct Only
Customer:
Department of Justice and Community Safety
Duration:
24 months
A heavily staged upgrade in a
live forensic environment
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) Capital Works Upgrade project is aimed at addressing a range of operational needs and enhancements identified during a review conducted in late 2020 at VIFM’s existing forensic facility, which operates 24hrs per day.
The project involves the construction of a new substation and backup generator facility, redeveloping the Coronial Admission and Enquiries department to include staff offices, family viewing rooms, and a new visitor entry. Additionally, it involves upgrading the facility to support infectious disease management, reconfiguring space to accommodate new offices and imaging facilities, as well as procuring and installing imaging equipment such as a CT scanner and MRI machine.
To ensure the facility remains entirely operational throughout the project’s duration, a carefully planned and staged approach has been agreed with the client. This strategy divides the project into nine Separable Portions, allowing Built Environs to tackle multiple work-fronts systematically. This approach ensures the facility’s continued functionality and minimises disruptions during the upgrade process.
Fast Facts:
- Upgrades to the mortuary and electrical infrastructure, plus installation of new imaging equipment
- Enhanced mortuary and office spaces for staff wellbeing, and improved visitor areas for families
- The forensic facility operates around the clock, necessitating careful planning
- Staged approach to ensure uninterrupted functionality and minimal disruptions during upgrades
