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Case study - Melbourne headquarters relocation project

Background

Australia Post headquarters has been located at 321 Exhibition Street in Melbourne for 20 years. The headquarters was relocated to nearby 111 Bourke Street towards the end of 2009.

The objectives of the relocation were to:

  • accommodate all staff in one central headquarters. Staff members were located in five buildings in the Melbourne CBD.
  • incorporate environmental sustainability design to improve Australia Post's performance.
  • demonstrate Australia Post's Green Building Strategy, which is a long-term commitment to minimise our environmental footprint.

Implementation

In the new headquarters building, our aim is to significantly reduce energy use by more than 30% per square metre and reduce water consumption.

Key environmental features of the new building are outlined in the table below.

Energy
  • Energy efficient lighting throughout the building
  • Lighting control systems including motion and daylight sensors
  • Zoned lighting and air conditioning to reflect business operation, so services can be turned off in areas where they aren't required
  • Workstations located near windows to utilise natural light
  • Energy efficient equipment and appliances such as flat screen monitors
  • Centralised resources to reduce the number of printers and fridges
  • Electrical sub-metering to allow energy performance to be monitored

Indoor environment quality
  • Air conditioning with fresh air intake
  • Access to day light and external views
  • Glare control through blinds and adjustable PC screens
  • Low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paints
  • Plants to improve air quality and aesthetics

Transport
  • Close to public transport routes
  • Secure bike racks, showers and locker facilities to encourage cycling and walking

Water
  • Water efficient fittings in breakout areas and showers
  • Dishwashers with a high water rating
  • Water chillers to reduce the need for bottled water
  • A black water treatment system to recycle water for re-use in toilets

Materials
  • Recyclable
  • From a sustainable source (plantation)
  • Made from recycled content
  • Demountable and reusable
  • Reuse of existing furniture and equipment where appropriate
  • Carpet tiles for flexibility and easy maintenance

Waste
  • There will be individual paper recycling bins at all desks
  • Large general waste and recycling bins will be located at central points to encourage better waste recycling

Results

The new building has a 5 Star Green Star rating for Office Design V2.

To find out more on how we are working to reduce energy consumption in our buildings, visit buildings which details environmental initiatives we are undertaking in our facilities.

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